Price Guide for 2003 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: $10.00 – $299.00
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eBayUncirculated: $1.50 – $595.00
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PCGS Price GuideUncirculated: $5.00 – $140.00
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3rd Party PriceUncirculated: $2.00 – $167.00
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eBayUncirculated: $1.70 – $495.00
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PCGS Price GuideUncirculated: $7.00 – $120.00
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3rd Party PriceUncirculated: $6.00 – $661.00
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eBayCirculated: $0.99Uncirculated: $0.98 – $218.00
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PCGS Price GuideUncirculated: $1.00 – $46.00
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eBayCirculated: $16.10Uncirculated: $4.30 – $672.10
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eBayUncirculated: $100.00
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eBayUncirculated: $29.00
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eBayUncirculated: $12.49 – $59.00
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eBayUncirculated: $26.95
Design and Specifications of the 2003 Cent
The 2003 Lincoln Cent continued the long-standing tradition of honoring America’s 16th president, Abraham Lincoln. This coin marked the 94th year of the Lincoln cent design, which was first introduced in 1909 to commemorate the centennial of Lincoln’s birth. The Lincoln cent remains one of the longest-running designs in U.S. coinage history, reflecting its enduring popularity and significance in American culture.
| Weight | 2.5 grams |
|---|---|
| Diameter | 19.05 mm |
| Mint Marks | D, S (proof only) |
| Composition | 99.2% zinc, 0.8% copper |
| Obverse Design | Portrait of Abraham Lincoln, designed by Victor D. Brenner |
| Reverse Design | Union shield, designed by Lyndall Bass |
Rarity Factors and Value Drivers
The condition of a 2003 Lincoln Cent significantly impacts its 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, factors such as full strike, strong luster, and absence of contact marks are crucial for higher grades.
Proof coins are expected to have sharp strikes, mirrored fields, and frosted devices. Any imperfections, such as contact marks or haze, can significantly reduce their value. Perfect PR70 examples are highly sought after by collectors.
Mintage: 3,300,000,000
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 collected as part of date sets
Mintage: 3,548,000,000
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 collected as part of date sets
Mintage: 3,298,495
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, collected by proof set enthusiasts
Toning can play a role in the desirability of 2003 Lincoln Cents, especially for proof issues. Natural, attractive toning can enhance the coin’s appeal and potentially its value. However, any signs of environmental damage or artificial toning are detrimental.
For circulation strikes, full strikes with sharp details, particularly on Lincoln’s hair and the wheat stalks, are more desirable. Die state can also impact value, with early die state coins typically being more sought after due to their sharper details.
While not particularly rare, 2003 Lincoln Cents in exceptionally high grades (MS67+ for circulation strikes or PR70 for proofs) can command significant premiums due to their scarcity in such pristine condition.
