It is a 1961 not a 1969 as your title states.. 1960's Cents were minted in such a way that the dates seem very bold at times. It's normal.. not a Mint Error
The dies for the lincoln cent where re-mastered in 1968 for the 1969 year issue. Pre- 1969 cent dies were made with a Bold Relief. Or High Relief. They do stand out from the more modern ones. Especially when the have some luster on them. Compare any pre-"68" with a 1970's cent and then compare that to a Shield Cent, and you should notice the "Evolution" of this coin.
You are so right. If there laying on a table, you can mostly pick them out right away. You really don't need a lope. Also the cents seem to hold up better. Thanks for this info. What wondering why. But now i know for sure. Thanks