The 2017-P Shield cent holds a special spot in modern Lincoln Cent history.
The United States Mint struck these coins in 2017 to celebrate the 225th anniversary of the Philadelphia Mint.
Philadelphia typically leaves the mint mark off its circulating pennies entirely.
For this one year only, the Mint added a small "P" mint mark below the date on circulating cents.
The reverse displays the modern Union Shield design that has been standard on pennies since 2010.
Collectors immediately took notice of this one-year type coin.
Finding one in pristine red condition makes all the difference to a dedicated series collector.
This entry tracks a notable certified sale logged by auction house EA.
The record marks a realized price of 7/18 for the piece.
The coin was certified and cataloged with a grade designation of 1.
In the coin grading scale, standard circulating coins are judged from heavily worn states up through perfect uncirculated condition.
The RD designation stands for full Red color on copper-plated zinc coins.
To qualify as Red, a penny must retain nearly all of its original mint luster and fiery color.
Certified sales like this one reflect specific collector interest in registered, graded examples.
Billions of Lincoln cents enter circulation every year from modern mints.
Most of those coins quickly pick up bag marks, fingerprints, or dull oxidation from daily handling.
Finding a modern coin that remains entirely untarnished requires checking fresh rolls or mint bags right away.
The "P" mint mark on the 2017 penny makes it a key target for complete date and mint mark sets.
Copper-plated zinc reacts easily with moisture and air over time.
That sensitivity means full Red condition can be surprisingly difficult to preserve without proper storage.
Top-quality examples that receive certified holder grades command higher premiums among registry set builders.
Average pocket change coins do not bring record prices, which makes certified survivors stand apart.
Start by finding a bright light source and a simple 5x or 10x magnifying glass.
Look closely at the obverse side of the coin right below the date 2017.
Check for the distinct capital letter "P" resting directly beneath the numbers.
If you see a "D", the coin came from Denver instead of Philadelphia.
If you are not sure what you have found in your change, you can scan the piece with Coin Value Checker to get a fast first opinion.
Next, examine the surfaces on both the portrait of Lincoln and the reverse shield.
Look for bright copper-red color without brown spotting, haze, or dark patches.
Check the high points of Lincoln's cheek and jacket for any signs of wear or contact marks.
Coins pulled from circulation will almost always show tiny dings or surface dulling.
Handle any promising coin by its edges so the oils from your fingers do not damage the surface.
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