The United States Mint struck this special Lincoln penny in 1979.
It came from the San Francisco Mint as part of the annual proof sets made for collectors.
Proof coins are struck using polished dies and specially prepared planchets to create sharp details.
During 1979, the mint made a notable change to the punch used for the mintmark on proof coins.
This mid-year change created two distinct styles for the date, known to collectors as Type 1 and Type 2.
The Type 1 coin features the older mintmark punch that had been in use for years.
Coins with the DCAM designation show a deep contrast between frosty design details and mirror-like flat fields.
This combination of the classic mintmark style and deep cameo contrast makes the coin a favorite among Lincoln cent specialists.
Heritage Auctions sold a top-certified example of this coin for a record price tracked from a 3/03 sale.
The coin was certified in a perfect grade of 70 by a major grading service.
A grade of 70 means the coin has no post-production flaws, scratches, or contact marks visible even under high magnification.
It is the highest possible grade a coin can receive on the standard numismatic scale.
Flawless modern proof coins are difficult to find because even tiny imperfections from the minting or packaging process lower the grade.
When an example receives that perfect grade, competition among set registry collectors pushes bids far above normal market levels.
Most examples pulled from original government packaging will fall just short of this ultimate grade.
Condition rarity is the main factor that drives the price for this specific penny.
Millions of proof sets were produced in 1979, so the coin itself is not rare in typical proof grades.
However, finding one without any microscopic spots, haze, or handling marks is unusually tough.
Copper-alloy pennies are particularly sensitive to environmental damage and air exposure over time.
The Deep Cameo finish adds another layer of desirability for collectors.
Deep Cameo coins require fresh dies that leave heavy, frosted textures on Lincoln's portrait and the Lincoln Memorial.
As the dies wore down during production, that frosted look faded into a standard brilliant proof finish.
A coin that combines the early Type 1 punch, intense cameo contrast, and an unblemished surface is a genuine rarity.
You need to look closely at the "S" mintmark located directly below the date on the front of the coin.
Use a coin loupe or a magnifying glass with at least 10x magnification to see the details clearly.
The Type 1 mintmark is often called the "Filled S" variety by collectors.
On a Type 1 coin, the mintmark has rounded loops and often looks slightly blobby or indistinct in the center.
In contrast, the Type 2 mintmark is much clearer, sharper, and has bulbous serifs with open loops.
Check the surface contrast under a single direct light source to confirm the DCAM finish.
The portrait of Lincoln and the lettering should look like frosted white frosting against a black mirror.
If you want a fast way to examine your proof pennies, Coin Value Checker can help you scan and identify what you have.
Be sure not to touch the surfaces of the coin with your bare hands, as skin oils can ruin proof fields instantly.
Hold the coin only by its edges or use soft cotton gloves when examining it.
The shortcut to a value estimate is the coin valuation app picks that held up in testing.