💡 Could a Simple 1959 Penny Be Worth Over $20,700?
At first glance, a 1959 Lincoln penny looks ordinary. Most are worth just one cent.
However, a very small number of ultra-rare 1959-S Deep Cameo Proof pennies have shocked collectors—one confirmed example sold for more than $20,700 at auction.
If you own old proof sets or inherited coin collections, this guide will walk you step by step through how to identify this extraordinary coin.
💎 Why Is the 1959-S Deep Cameo Penny So Valuable?
This is not a circulation penny. It is a proof coin, struck with exceptional care by the U.S. Mint for collectors.
🔍 Key Value Drivers
✔️ San Francisco “S” mint mark
✔️ Deep mirror-like fields (background)
✔️ Strong frosted devices (portrait & lettering)
✔️ Deep Cameo / Ultra Cameo contrast
✔️ Extremely high grade (PR-69)
✔️ First year of the Lincoln Memorial reverse
✔️ Fewer than 10 known examples in top condition
➡️ Condition and contrast are everything. Even minor flaws can reduce value dramatically.
🧭 Step-by-Step: How to Identify a Rare 1959-S Deep Cameo Proof Penny
Step 1: Confirm It’s a Proof Coin
Look closely under good lighting or a 10× loupe 🔍
You should see:
- Razor-sharp details
- Highly reflective, mirror-like surface
- No wear, dullness, or circulation marks
⚠️ If the surface looks matte or worn, it is not a proof.
Step 2: Check for the “S” Mint Mark
- The mint mark must be “S”, located below the date
- No mint mark = Philadelphia coin (not valuable)
Step 3: Look for Deep Cameo Contrast
This is the most important step.
A true Deep Cameo proof will show:
💎 Jet-black mirrored fields
💎 Bright white frosted portrait of Lincoln
💎 Strong black-and-white contrast visible at any angle
👉 Weak contrast = lower value.
Step 4: Understand Proof Grades & Values
Proof coins are graded on a PR scale.
| Grade | Description | Estimated Value |
|---|---|---|
| PR-67 | Light marks | $500 – $1,000 |
| PR-68 | Sharp cameo | $2,000 – $5,000 |
| PR-69 Deep Cameo | Near-perfect | $10,000 – $20,700+ |
📈 Only a handful ever reach PR-69 Deep Cameo.
🏆 Real Auction Results (Verified)
| Year | Grade | Sale Price |
|---|---|---|
| 2023 | PR-69 Deep Cameo | 💰 $20,700 |
| 2022 | PR-68+ Deep Cameo | 💰 $15,000 |
| 2021 | PR-67 Ultra Cameo | 💰 $9,200 |
These results prove consistent high demand and rising prices.
🏦 Where Are These Coins Found?
The 1959-S Deep Cameo penny was never released into circulation.
You may find one in:
📦 Original U.S. proof sets
🪙 Old collector collections
🏛️ Inherited coin holdings
🏦 Long-stored bank vault collections
👉 If you own a 1959 proof set, it is absolutely worth inspecting.
🧤 What to Do If You Think You Found One
1️⃣ Hold the coin by the edges only
2️⃣ Avoid cleaning (this destroys value instantly)
3️⃣ Compare with PCGS / NGC reference images
4️⃣ Submit to PCGS or NGC for authentication
✅ Certified examples command the highest auction prices.
⚠️ Beware of Fakes and Altered Coins
Common problems include:
❌ Artificial frosting (chemical treatment)
❌ Cleaned or polished proofs
❌ Damaged or impaired coins
✔️ Genuine proofs have crisp rims and flawless mirrors.
🏁 Final Thoughts: Don’t Overlook Your Proof Sets
The 1959-S Deep Cameo Proof penny is one of the most stunning and valuable modern U.S. cents ever produced.
Before dismissing that old proof set in your drawer—check it carefully.
You might be holding a five-figure coin without realizing it.
Leave a Reply