1996-D Lincoln Cent PCGS MS67RD

You’re asking about a 1996-D Lincoln Cent PCGS MS67RD. This is another example of a modern coin whose value is entirely dependent on its extremely high grade and perfect color.

Let’s break down what each part means:

• 1996-D Lincoln Cent:
  • 1996: The year of issue.
  • D: The mint mark, indicating it was produced at the Denver Mint.
  • Lincoln Cent: The familiar U.S. one-cent coin.
  • Modern Coin: Like other cents from the 1990s, the 1996-D had an enormous mintage of over 6.5 billion coins. This means that common circulated examples or even lower-end uncirculated coins are only worth face value. The numismatic value comes solely from its exceptional state of preservation.
• PCGS (Professional Coin Grading Service): This is one of the premier third-party coin grading services in the world, renowned for its consistent and stringent grading standards. Coins graded by PCGS (and NGC) are highly liquid in the market and are generally preferred by serious collectors, especially for high-grade modern issues.
• MS67RD: This is the critical component of the grade, signifying both the coin’s uncirculated condition and its highly desired color.
  • MS (Mint State): This means the coin is uncirculated and shows no signs of wear from circulation. It retains its full, original mint luster.
  • 67: This is a very high numerical grade on the Sheldon scale (1-70). An MS67 coin is classified as a Superb Gem Uncirculated coin. It should exhibit full, strong original luster, an excellent strike, and virtually no distracting contact marks or imperfections. Any flaws present would be extremely minor and very difficult to detect without magnification. For modern coins, reaching MS67 is a testament to nearly perfect handling from the moment it was struck.
  • RD (Red): This is the most sought-after color designation for copper coins like the Lincoln Cent. “RD” means the coin retains 95% or more of its original vibrant red copper color. This indicates superb preservation and minimal toning or oxidation over time.

Value:

Despite the colossal mintage, finding a 1996-D Lincoln Cent that has survived in PCGS MS67RD condition is quite rare. Only a tiny fraction of the billions produced meet these exacting standards. PCGS’s population reports indicate that there are around 1,047 examples graded MS67RD, with 370 graded higher (MS68RD or better).

Based on current market data (as of early July 2025), a 1996-D Lincoln Cent PCGS MS67RD typically sells in the range of $15 to $35.

Important Considerations:

• Rarity at Grade: The value is driven by the scarcity of the coin at this specific, high grade, not its overall mintage. Collectors participating in set registries (like the PCGS Set Registry) actively seek these top-graded coins to complete high-ranking sets.
• Eye Appeal: Even within the MS67RD grade, subtle differences in eye appeal (e.g., strength of luster, absence of tiny spots, sharpness of strike) can sometimes influence the final sale price.
• Market Dynamics: Prices for modern coins in very high grades can be sensitive to fluctuations in collector demand and the competitive nature of set building.