The Elusive 1920 One Cent Penny: Discovering Its Value

The Elusive 1920 One Cent Penny: Discovering Its Value

What is the worth of a 1920 one-cent penny?

The 1920 one-cent penny, also known as the Lincoln penny, is a coin that was minted in the United States from 1909 to the present day. It is composed of 95% copper and 5% zinc and weighs 3.11 grams. The obverse (heads) of the coin features the image of President Abraham Lincoln, while the reverse (tails) features the Lincoln Memorial.

The value of a 1920 one-cent penny depends on several factors, including its condition, rarity, and the presence of any errors or varieties. In general, a 1920 one-cent penny in good condition is worth between $0.05 and $0.10. However, some rare varieties of the 1920 one-cent penny can be worth significantly more. For example, a 1920 one-cent penny with a doubled die error can be worth up to $1,000.

The 1920 one-cent penny is a popular coin among collectors, and it is often used in educational programs about American history. It is also a reminder of the important role that pennies have played in the United States economy for over 200 years.

1920 One Cent Penny Worth

The 1920 one cent penny, also known as the Lincoln penny, is a coin that was minted in the United States from 1909 to the present day. It is composed of 95% copper and 5% zinc and weighs 3.11 grams. The obverse (heads) of the coin features the image of President Abraham Lincoln, while the reverse (tails) features the Lincoln Memorial.

  • Composition: 95% copper, 5% zinc
  • Weight: 3.11 grams
  • Diameter: 19.05 mm
  • Thickness: 1.52 mm
  • Edge: Plain
  • Obverse: Lincoln Memorial
  • Reverse: Lincoln's portrait
  • Motto: In God We Trust

The value of a 1920 one cent penny depends on several factors, including its condition, rarity, and the presence of any errors or varieties. In general, a 1920 one-cent penny in good condition is worth between $0.05 and $0.10. However, some rare varieties of the 1920 one-cent penny can be worth significantly more. For example, a 1920 one-cent penny with a doubled die error can be worth up to $1,000.

The 1920 one-cent penny is a popular coin among collectors, and it is often used in educational programs about American history. It is also a reminder of the important role that pennies have played in the United States economy for over 200 years.

1. Composition

The composition of a 1920 one cent penny is 95% copper and 5% zinc. This composition gives the coin its distinctive reddish-brown color and its resistance to corrosion. Copper is a relatively soft metal, so the addition of zinc helps to harden the coin and make it more durable.

  • Durability: The addition of zinc to the copper makes the coin more resistant to wear and tear, which is important for a coin that is intended to circulate for many years.
  • Color: The copper content of the coin gives it its distinctive reddish-brown color. This color is one of the things that makes the 1920 one cent penny so easily recognizable.
  • Value: The composition of the coin also affects its value. Copper is a relatively common metal, so the 1920 one cent penny is not worth very much in terms of its metal content. However, the coin's historical significance and its popularity among collectors give it a higher value than its metal content would suggest.

The composition of the 1920 one cent penny is an important factor in its value and desirability. The coin's copper content gives it its distinctive color and its resistance to corrosion, while the addition of zinc helps to harden the coin and make it more durable. These factors make the 1920 one cent penny a popular coin among collectors and a valuable piece of American history.

2. Weight

The weight of a 1920 one cent penny is 3.11 grams. This is an important factor in determining the coin's value, as the weight can be used to determine the coin's composition and rarity. The weight also affects the coin's durability and resistance to wear and tear.

The weight of a 1920 one cent penny is primarily determined by its composition. The coin is composed of 95% copper and 5% zinc, and the weight of the coin is determined by the weight of these two metals. Copper is a relatively dense metal, so the weight of the coin is primarily due to the copper content. The addition of zinc to the copper helps to harden the coin and make it more durable, but it also slightly reduces the coin's weight.

The weight of a 1920 one cent penny can also be affected by the coin's rarity. Some varieties of the 1920 one cent penny are rarer than others, and these rare varieties can be worth more money. For example, a 1920 one cent penny with a doubled die error can be worth up to $1,000. The doubled die error occurs when the dies that are used to strike the coin are not properly aligned, which results in a doubling of the design on the coin. This error is relatively rare, and it can significantly increase the value of the coin.

The weight of a 1920 one cent penny is an important factor in determining the coin's value, rarity, and durability. The weight can be used to determine the coin's composition, and it can also be used to identify rare varieties of the coin. The weight of the coin is also a factor in its durability, as a heavier coin is more resistant to wear and tear.

3. Diameter

The diameter of a 1920 one cent penny is 19.05 mm. This measurement is important because it helps to determine the coin's value, rarity, and authenticity. The diameter of a coin can also be used to identify different varieties of the same coin.

  • Value: The diameter of a coin can affect its value. For example, a 1920 one cent penny with a slightly larger diameter than normal may be worth more money than a coin with a smaller diameter. This is because the larger diameter coin may be a rare variety.
  • Rarity: The diameter of a coin can also be used to identify rare varieties. For example, there is a known variety of the 1920 one cent penny that has a slightly smaller diameter than normal. This variety is known as the "Small Diameter" variety, and it is considered to be quite rare.
  • Authenticity: The diameter of a coin can also be used to determine its authenticity. For example, a 1920 one cent penny with a diameter that is significantly different from the normal diameter may be a counterfeit coin.
  • Minting Process: The diameter of a coin is determined by the dies that are used to strike the coin. The dies are made of steel, and they have a slightly raised design on their surface. When the dies are struck together, the design on the dies is transferred to the coin. The diameter of the coin is determined by the size of the dies.

The diameter of a 1920 one cent penny is an important factor in determining the coin's value, rarity, and authenticity. The diameter of the coin can also be used to identify different varieties of the same coin. By understanding the diameter of a 1920 one cent penny, you can learn more about the coin's history and value.

4. Thickness

The thickness of a 1920 one cent penny is 1.52 mm. This measurement is important because it helps to determine the coin's value, rarity, and authenticity. The thickness of a coin can also be used to identify different varieties of the same coin.

  • Value: The thickness of a coin can affect its value. For example, a 1920 one cent penny with a slightly thicker or thinner planchet than normal may be worth more money than a coin with a normal thickness. This is because the thicker or thinner planchet may be a rare variety.
  • Rarity: The thickness of a coin can also be used to identify rare varieties. For example, there is a known variety of the 1920 one cent penny that has a slightly thicker planchet than normal. This variety is known as the "Thick Planchet" variety, and it is considered to be quite rare.
  • Authenticity: The thickness of a coin can also be used to determine its authenticity. For example, a 1920 one cent penny with a thickness that is significantly different from the normal thickness may be a counterfeit coin.
  • Minting Process: The thickness of a coin is determined by the dies that are used to strike the coin. The dies are made of steel, and they have a slightly raised design on their surface. When the dies are struck together, the design on the dies is transferred to the coin. The thickness of the coin is determined by the distance between the dies when they are struck together.

The thickness of a 1920 one cent penny is an important factor in determining the coin's value, rarity, and authenticity. The thickness of the coin can also be used to identify different varieties of the same coin. By understanding the thickness of a 1920 one cent penny, you can learn more about the coin's history and value.

5. Edge

The edge of a 1920 one cent penny is plain, meaning that it has no reeding or other design. This is in contrast to some other coins, which have a reeded edge or a design such as lettering or stars. The plain edge of the 1920 one cent penny is one of the features that helps to distinguish it from other coins.

The plain edge of the 1920 one cent penny is also important because it affects the coin's value. Coins with a plain edge are generally worth less than coins with a reeded edge or other design. This is because coins with a plain edge are more common and less desirable to collectors. However, there are some exceptions to this rule. For example, some rare varieties of the 1920 one cent penny with a plain edge can be worth more than coins with a reeded edge.

The plain edge of the 1920 one cent penny is a significant factor in determining the coin's value and desirability. Collectors should be aware of this when they are evaluating coins for their collection.

6. Obverse

The obverse of a coin is the side that bears the main design or portrait. On the 1920 one cent penny, the obverse features the Lincoln Memorial. This is a significant design element that contributes to the coin's value and desirability.

  • Historical Significance: The Lincoln Memorial is a national monument built to honor Abraham Lincoln, the 16th President of the United States. The memorial is located in Washington, D.C., and is one of the most popular tourist destinations in the city. The fact that the Lincoln Memorial is featured on the obverse of the 1920 one cent penny is a testament to Lincoln's legacy and the importance of the memorial.
  • Artistic Merit: The Lincoln Memorial is a beautiful and iconic work of architecture. The design of the memorial is simple yet elegant, and it has been praised by critics and the public alike. The depiction of the Lincoln Memorial on the 1920 one cent penny is a faithful and accurate representation of the monument, and it is one of the things that makes the coin so visually appealing.
  • Rarity: The 1920 one cent penny is a relatively common coin, but there are some rare varieties that can be worth a significant amount of money. One of these rare varieties is the 1920-D one cent penny, which was minted at the Denver Mint. The 1920-D one cent penny is scarce, and it is one of the most sought-after varieties of the 1920 one cent penny by collectors.

The obverse of the 1920 one cent penny is an important factor in determining the coin's value and desirability. The Lincoln Memorial is a significant historical and architectural landmark, and its depiction on the coin adds to its value and appeal. Collectors should be aware of the different varieties of the 1920 one cent penny, as some varieties are rarer and more valuable than others.

7. Reverse

The reverse of a coin is the side that bears the secondary design or denomination. On the 1920 one cent penny, the reverse features the portrait of Abraham Lincoln, the 16th President of the United States. This is a significant design element that contributes to the coin's value and desirability.

The portrait of Lincoln on the 1920 one cent penny was designed by Victor David Brenner, a prominent sculptor and engraver. Brenner's design was selected through a competition held by the United States Mint, and it has been used on the one cent penny ever since. The portrait is a faithful and accurate representation of Lincoln, and it is one of the most recognizable images of the president.

The presence of Lincoln's portrait on the reverse of the 1920 one cent penny is one of the things that makes the coin so valuable and desirable to collectors. Lincoln is one of the most popular and respected presidents in American history, and his image on the coin is a reminder of his legacy. The portrait is also a work of art in its own right, and it is one of the things that makes the 1920 one cent penny such a beautiful and appealing coin.

In addition to its historical and artistic significance, the portrait of Lincoln on the reverse of the 1920 one cent penny also has a practical significance. The portrait helps to distinguish the one cent penny from other coins, and it makes it easier to identify and value the coin. The portrait is also a reminder of the value of the coin, and it can help to prevent counterfeiting.

The reverse of the 1920 one cent penny is an important factor in determining the coin's value and desirability. The portrait of Lincoln is a significant historical and artistic element, and it is one of the things that makes the coin so popular with collectors. The portrait is also a practical element, as it helps to distinguish the one cent penny from other coins and prevent counterfeiting.

8. Motto

The motto "In God We Trust" has been a part of the design of the one cent penny since 1909. The motto was added to the coin at a time when the United States was facing a number of challenges, including the Great Depression and the rise of communism. The motto was intended to be a reminder that the United States was a nation founded on faith in God, and that God would help the country overcome its challenges.

The motto "In God We Trust" is an important part of the design of the 1920 one cent penny. It is a reminder of the historical and religious context in which the coin was created, and it is a symbol of the faith that many Americans have in God. The motto is also a reminder of the values that the United States was founded on, and it is a reminder of the importance of these values in the modern world.

The motto "In God We Trust" is a controversial one. Some people believe that it is inappropriate to have a religious motto on a coin that is used in everyday commerce. Others believe that the motto is an important part of the coin's design, and that it is a reminder of the country's religious heritage. Ultimately, the decision of whether or not to keep the motto on the coin is a matter of personal opinion.

FAQs about 1920 One Cent Penny Worth

Here are some frequently asked questions about the 1920 one cent penny and its worth.

Question 1: How much is a 1920 one cent penny worth?


The value of a 1920 one cent penny depends on several factors, including its condition, rarity, and the presence of any errors or varieties. In general, a 1920 one-cent penny in good condition is worth between $0.05 and $0.10. However, some rare varieties of the 1920 one-cent penny can be worth significantly more. For example, a 1920 one-cent penny with a doubled die error can be worth up to $1,000.

Question 2: What is the composition of a 1920 one cent penny?


The composition of a 1920 one cent penny is 95% copper and 5% zinc. This composition gives the coin its distinctive reddish-brown color and its resistance to corrosion.

Question 3: What is the weight of a 1920 one cent penny?


The weight of a 1920 one cent penny is 3.11 grams. This weight is important because it helps to determine the coin's composition and rarity.

Question 4: What is the diameter of a 1920 one cent penny?


The diameter of a 1920 one cent penny is 19.05 mm. This measurement is important because it helps to determine the coin's value, rarity, and authenticity.

Question 5: What is the edge of a 1920 one cent penny?


The edge of a 1920 one cent penny is plain, meaning that it has no reeding or other design. This is in contrast to some other coins, which have a reeded edge or a design such as lettering or stars.

Summary: The 1920 one cent penny is a valuable and desirable coin. Its value is determined by several factors, including its condition, rarity, and the presence of any errors or varieties.

Transition: To learn more about the 1920 one cent penny, please visit our website.

Conclusion

The 1920 one cent penny is a valuable and desirable coin with a rich history. It is one of the most popular coins among collectors, and it is often used in educational programs about American history. The value of a 1920 one cent penny depends on several factors, including its condition, rarity, and the presence of any errors or varieties. In general, a 1920 one-cent penny in good condition is worth between $0.05 and $0.10. However, some rare varieties of the 1920 one-cent penny can be worth significantly more. For example, a 1920 one-cent penny with a doubled die error can be worth up to $1,000.

If you are interested in learning more about the 1920 one cent penny, there are a number of resources available online and in libraries. The American Numismatic Association is a good place to start your research. The ANA is a non-profit organization that promotes the study and collection of coins and paper money. The ANA website has a wealth of information about the 1920 one cent penny, including its history, value, and rarity.

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