Price Guide for 1994 Cent Variants
This guide presents price ranges for variants from three sources: eBay sales, third-party auctions, and PCGS guides. Values are shown for various conditions, allowing collectors to compare across different market segments. Price estimates may vary between sources, especially for rarer variants.
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3rd Party PriceUncirculated: $9.00 – $633.00
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eBayUncirculated: $1.00 – $200.00
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PCGS Price GuideUncirculated: $6.00 – $3,750.00
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3rd Party PriceUncirculated: $6.00 – $1,035.00
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eBayUncirculated: $0.99 – $710.00
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PCGS Price GuideUncirculated: $6.00 – $13,000.00
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3rd Party PriceUncirculated: $6.00 – $1,955.00
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eBayUncirculated: $0.99 – $190.00
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PCGS Price GuideUncirculated: $1.00 – $42.00
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eBayUncirculated: $3.33 – $195.00
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3rd Party PriceCirculated: $48.00
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eBayCirculated: $80.00
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3rd Party PriceCirculated: $42.00Uncirculated: $44.00 – $104.00
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eBayUncirculated: $40.00 – $195.00
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3rd Party PriceUncirculated: $105.75 – $2,875.00
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eBayUncirculated: $200.15 – $997.50
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PCGS Price GuideUncirculated: $37.00 – $2,050.00
Design and Specifications of the 1994 Cent
The 1994 Lincoln Cent continued the long-standing tradition of honoring America’s 16th president, Abraham Lincoln. This coin marked the 85th year of the Lincoln Cent design, which was first introduced in 1909 to commemorate Lincoln’s centennial birth year. The Lincoln Memorial reverse, introduced in 1959, was nearing the end of its run, as it would be replaced in 2009 with new designs celebrating Lincoln’s life.
| Weight | 2.5 grams |
|---|---|
| Diameter | 19.05 mm |
| Mint Marks | P, D, S |
| Composition | 99.2% zinc, 0.8% copper |
| Obverse Design | Portrait of Abraham Lincoln, designed by Victor D. Brenner |
| Reverse Design | Lincoln Memorial, designed by Frank Gasparro |
Rarity Factors and Value Drivers
The condition of 1994 Lincoln Cents significantly impacts their value, particularly for circulation strikes. While these coins are common in circulated grades, specimens in pristine, uncirculated condition (MS65 and above) can command premium prices. For circulation strikes, look for coins with full, original mint luster, sharp strike details on Lincoln’s hair and the Memorial columns, and minimal contact marks.
Proof coins are generally well-preserved but can still vary in quality. The most desirable proof specimens will have deep, mirrored fields, frosted devices, and be free of any imperfections. Cameo and especially Deep Cameo proofs with strong contrast between fields and devices are particularly sought after.
Mintage: 6,500,850,000
Rarity Scale: Common
Circulation Status: Widely Circulated
Preservation Rarity: Common in most grades, but scarce in gem (MS65+) condition
Varieties Errors: None significant
Market Demand: Low, primarily of interest to collectors building complete sets
Mintage: 7,131,765,000
Rarity Scale: Common
Circulation Status: Widely Circulated
Preservation Rarity: Common in most grades, but scarce in gem (MS65+) condition
Varieties Errors: None significant
Market Demand: Low, primarily of interest to collectors building complete sets
Mintage: 3,269,923
Rarity Scale: Common for proofs
Circulation Status: Not Intended for Circulation
Preservation Rarity: Common in most proof grades, but scarce in perfect (PR70) condition
Varieties Errors: None significant
Market Demand: Moderate, appealing to proof set collectors
Several factors can influence the value of 1994 Lincoln Cents beyond mere condition:
1. Toning: Natural, attractive toning can enhance the value, especially for uncirculated coins.
2. Strike Quality: Well-struck coins with sharp details are more desirable.
3. Die State: Late die state coins with interesting die wear characteristics might appeal to specialized collectors.
4. Errors: While no major errors are known for this year, any discovered mint errors (such as off-center strikes or die cracks) could carry a premium.
5. Certified Coins: Coins graded and encapsulated by reputable grading services often command higher prices, especially in top grades.
