So I just started collecting and read you should pick something easy and focused to not get over-whelmed. I decided to just start collecting pennies from 1970-1989, one penny for each year with each mint mark (or lack there of). I do understand that no mint is likely Philly which doesn't bother me, I set out to do it and am enjoying it. My question though is, is it possible? I'm a little confused by the explanations on line. So, can I eventually find all 3 of my desired pieces or are there just some years in my timeframe that will always have some mint mark on them? Edit: I do also keep older pennies as well, I'm not crazy Got a few wheats from roll searches so far; not to bad shape either. Thanks for your time.
From the time period you mention every year (Made for ciculation) comes with no mintmark, every year comes with a D mintmark, and 1970 to 1974 also come with an S mintmark
Welcome to Coin Talk. The first thing I would recommend is that you get a reference book. Most use the Red Book, as it has a lot of information. You will find that collecting is addicting and you will soon expand your areas of interest. By the way the Lincoln Cents for this year, 2017, will have a P mint mark for Philadelphia.
Thank you both for the information and yes it is addictive! I did get the red book from Amazon, now I'm waiting for the page magnifying glass so I can read it, didn't think my eyes could get any worse but shows what I know. I live in Denver so the boxes I get from the bank are flooded with new 2017 D's. I guess because I'm so used the seeing the Lincoln memorial I can't stand the shield
Collecting cents that way is fun. Even though I have spent many thousands of dollars on coins over the years, I still enjoy my inexpensive date series of Abraham Lincoln cents from 1909-2009.
You might also consider looking for Lincoln cent varieties or even errors as well, especially if you are coin roll hunting. TC
