The United States Mint struck the 1968 Lincoln cent in large numbers for everyday circulation.
This coin belongs to the long-running Lincoln Memorial reverse design, which replaced the classic wheat stalks in 1959.
The Philadelphia Mint struck pennies without mint marks during this era.
Pennies from this time contain a solid bronze alloy rather than the modern zinc core.
Billions of these cents left the presses and passed from hand to hand across the country.
Because they made so many, average circulated examples are very common and turn up in pocket change all the time.
Finding an example in brand-new, untouched condition is a completely different story.
High-grade examples of this date can bring significant interest when offered by major auction houses.
Stack's Bowers (SB) handled a standout sale for an example graded Mint State 67 Red (MS67 RD).
The coin crossed the auction block in August 2018 (08/18).
A grade of MS67 means the coin shows virtually no contact marks, scratches, or wear under a magnifying glass.
The "RD" designation stands for Red, meaning the coin retains almost all of its original copper color.
Most 1968 cents picked up minor bag marks or color changes long before they could reach a grading service.
A certified piece at the MS67 level represents the very top tier of quality known for the issue.
The total mintage for 1968 pennies was massive, so raw rarity is not what makes high-grade coins valuable.
Value here comes down entirely to condition rarity and collector competition.
Bronze coins oxidize quickly when exposed to air, turning from bright red to brown over time.
Modern production methods in 1968 were focused on quantity rather than producing pristine coins for collectors.
Dies wore out quickly, leaving many cents with soft details or dull surfaces right from the start.
Handling and shipping in heavy canvas bags also dented most coins before they ever reached a bank.
Registry set collectors actively seek the highest-graded coins to build the best Lincoln cent sets in the world.
When two or more dedicated collectors compete for a top-grade survivor, prices can rise well above normal levels.
A typical worn 1968 cent from your change will not bring these prices.
You can inspect your 1968 cents at home with a few simple tools.
Start by checking the date on the front of the coin to confirm it reads 1968 without a mint mark beneath it.
Use a 5x or 10x jeweler's loupe under good lighting to examine the coin's surfaces.
Look closely at Lincoln's cheek, jawline, and coat for any signs of friction or tiny contact nicks.
Turn the coin over and check the steps and pillars of the Lincoln Memorial on the reverse.
Check the color to see if it shows full, blazing red luster rather than a dull brown or spotty red-brown tone.
Coins with fingerprints, dark spots, or cleaning scratches will not earn the top grades needed for serious value.
If you want a quick opinion before looking into professional grading, an app like Coin Value Checker or CoinKnow can help you take a closer look.
Remember that only certified, flawless coins reach the top tier of the market.
The easiest way to check worth is a phone scan — see a closer look at which coin valuation app actually works.