The 2023 penny is part of the Lincoln Shield cent series. It keeps the same design we’ve seen since 2010, and it’s still one of the most common coins in your pocket. But if you look closely, some 2023 pennies can be fun and even valuable to collect!
What Is the 2023 Penny Made Of?
Even though pennies look copper-colored, they’re mostly zinc. Since 1982, U.S. pennies have been made of:
- 97.5% zinc
- 2.5% copper plating
- Weight: About 2.5 grams
- Size: 19 millimeters across
This change saved the U.S. Mint money—real copper costs a lot more!
Front Design (Obverse): Lincoln’s Portrait
On the front, you’ll see Abraham Lincoln’s face looking to the right. You’ll also find:
- “LIBERTY” on the left
- The year “2023” on the right
- “IN GOD WE TRUST” at the top
Mint marks show where the coin was made:
- No letter = Philadelphia
- “D” = Denver
- “S” = San Francisco
Look just under the year to find the mint mark!
Back Design (Reverse): The Union Shield
The back of the coin shows a shield, a symbol of strength and unity. Here’s what to look for:
- 13 stripes = the first 13 U.S. states
- “E PLURIBUS UNUM” above the shield (means “Out of many, one”)
- “ONE CENT” written on a scroll across the shield
- “UNITED STATES OF AMERICA” around the top
You may also spot the initials “LB” and “JFM”—they’re for designer Lyndall Bass and engraver Joseph Menna.
How Many Were Made?
Tons! Just at the Philadelphia Mint, over 2.2 billion 2023 pennies were made. Denver and San Francisco also made millions, so you’re likely to find these coins everywhere.
Are 2023 Pennies Worth More Than 1 Cent?
Most are only worth 1 cent. But here’s what collectors are looking for:
- Mint errors like doubled images or off-center strikes
- Shiny uncirculated coins in perfect condition
- Proof coins from San Francisco in special coin sets
If you find one of these, it could be worth more—sometimes a few dollars or more depending on the error or condition.
Conclusion
The 2023 penny keeps Lincoln’s legacy alive with a strong, modern design. Even though it’s common, it has cool details that make it fun to collect—especially if you find a rare error or a super clean coin. So next time you get change, check your pennies… you might be holding a tiny piece of treasure!
FAQ’s
Q1: What is the 2023 penny made of?
A: It’s made of 97.5% zinc and 2.5% copper plating—standard since 1982.
Q2: Are any 2023 pennies valuable?
A: Most are worth one cent, but rare mint errors or high-grade coins can be worth more.
Q3: Where is the mint mark on a 2023 penny?
A: Just below the date—look for “D” (Denver), “S” (San Francisco), or no mark (Philadelphia).
