The 2017-P Lincoln Shield Cent holds a special place in U.S. coin history. It was the first and only penny from the Philadelphia Mint to feature a “P” mintmark. Released quietly and without much fanfare, this coin caught collectors by surprise, making it a unique and sought-after item in the world of numismatics.
Why Is the 2017-P Lincoln Shield Cent Special?
The U.S. Mint celebrated its 225th anniversary in 2017, releasing special coins like the 2017-P Lincoln Cent. This coin featured the “P” mintmark for the first time ever on a penny, standing for the Philadelphia Mint. Although more than 4 billion of these coins were made, making them common, the early 2017-P pennies were produced in smaller numbers. This added excitement for collectors who wanted to find these limited early releases in their change.
Market Data and Value
If you’re interested in buying or selling a 2017-P Lincoln Shield Cent, knowing its value is important. The most pristine versions, graded MS68RD, can be worth up to $500. Slightly lower-graded coins (MS67+RD) have sold for between $31 and $37. Coins graded MS67 are more common and typically sell for $10 to $20 on sites like eBay.
For less perfect coins, graded MS66RD, prices drop to around $5. Uncertified coins, also called “raw” specimens, usually sell for about $1 to $2, depending on their shine.
2017-P Lincoln Shield Cent Design
Obverse (Front)
The front of the coin shows Abraham Lincoln facing right. Above his head, you’ll see the phrase “IN GOD WE TRUST.” On the left side is the word “LIBERTY,” and on the right, the year “2017” with the “P” mintmark below.
Reverse (Back)
The reverse features a Union shield, representing the strength of the United States. The 13 vertical stripes on the shield stand for the original 13 colonies, and the motto “E PLURIBUS UNUM” is inscribed on the horizontal bar. The denomination “ONE CENT” is shown on a scroll below the shield, symbolizing unity and movement.
Edge
The edge of the coin is smooth, unlike some coins that have a ridged or patterned edge.
Coin Specifications
To make the information easy to understand, here’s a table with the key details about the 2017-P Lincoln Shield Cent:
| Specification | Details |
|---|---|
| Country | United States of America |
| Year of Issue | 2017 |
| Denomination | One Cent (USD) |
| Mintmark | P (Philadelphia) |
| Mintage | 4,361,220,000 |
| Composition | 97.5% zinc, 2.5% copper |
| Weight | 2.5 grams |
| Diameter | 19.0 mm |
| Edge | Plain |
| Obverse Designer | Victor D. Brenner |
| Reverse Designers | Lyndall Bass, Joseph Menna |
Conclusion
The 2017-P Lincoln Shield Cent is a fun and significant piece for coin collectors. Its historical importance, combined with the unique “P” mintmark, makes it a great addition to any collection. Whether you’re buying, selling, or just curious, this coin stands out as a notable piece of U.S. coin history.
FAQ’s
Why is the 2017-P Lincoln Shield Cent special?
The 2017-P Lincoln Shield Cent is special because it’s the first and only U.S. penny to feature a “P” mintmark, indicating it was struck at the Philadelphia Mint. Released quietly in 2017, the coin was issued to celebrate the 225th anniversary of the United States Mint, making it a unique collector’s item.
How much is a 2017-P Lincoln Shield Cent worth?
The value of a 2017-P Lincoln Shield Cent depends on its condition. Pristine versions graded MS68RD can be worth up to $500, while slightly lower-graded MS67+RD coins have sold for around $30 to $40. Common, uncertified versions typically sell for $1 to $2.
What is the design on the 2017-P Lincoln Shield Cent?
The obverse (front) of the coin features a portrait of Abraham Lincoln, while the reverse (back) shows a Union shield with 13 vertical stripes representing the original colonies. The coin’s design symbolizes the unity and strength of the United States.
