1955-S 1C, RDPCGS Plus

Description

1955-S Lincoln Cent, MS67 RD, PCGS Plus (Cert. #57558632). The 1955-S Lincoln Cent represents a fascinating chapter in American numismatic history. Due to the anticipated shutdown of the San Francisco Mint, this issue became one of the most aggressively hoarded coins in collecting circles, despite the facility's closure ultimately proving temporary. The combination of massive collector demand and production challenges resulted in coins that frequently display "mushy" strikes, particularly on the reverse wheat stalks and peripheral lettering. This particular example, graded MS67 RD by PCGS, demonstrates superior eye appeal and striking quality that elevates it above typical survivors from this problematic mintage. This specimen represents the full Mint State Red designation, a significant achievement for an issue where many examples have evolved into muted cognac-colored patinas over the decades. With a mintage of 44,610,000 coins, the 1955-S was produced in substantial quantities; however, the PCGS population data reveals that only 5 examples grade higher than MS67, and just 90 total coins have been certified across all grades—a testament to the rarity of premium examples in this series. The PCGS Plus designation further distinguishes this coin as exceptional within its grade. Composed of 95% copper with 5% tin and zinc, this coin retains the classic composition and specifications of the Lincoln Cent series. The Victor David Brenner design remains crisp and well-defined on this carefully preserved example. Whether sought by type collectors, date collectors, or specialists in mid-century American coinage, this 1955-S represents a quality representative of this historically significant issue in its finest form.