The 2013-S Lincoln Penny is worth anywhere from $2 to $10 for a typical proof specimen, but in top-grade cameo or deep cameo condition, values can climb to $25 or more. Whether you found one in an old proof set or inherited a collection, here’s exactly what you need to know.
If you’re not sure which Lincoln penny you have, a free coin identification app can help you quickly confirm the mint mark, design type, and grade before you start researching its value.
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What Makes the 2013-S Lincoln Penny Different
The 2013-S Lincoln Penny was struck at the San Francisco Mint and was never released into general circulation. It was produced exclusively for collectors as part of the annual U.S. Proof Set. That small “S” mint mark on the obverse, just below the date, is the key detail that sets it apart from the billions of Lincoln cents made at Philadelphia and Denver that same year.
Because these coins were made using specially polished dies and carefully selected planchets, the surfaces show that sharp, mirror-like finish you typically see on proof coins. The reverse features the Union Shield design, which debuted in 2010 and is still used today. Most 2013-S pennies you’ll find are still tucked inside their original government-issued proof set packaging, which helps protect them from wear and environmental damage. If yours is still sealed, that’s a great sign for value.
Understanding the distinction between a regular business-strike penny and a proof coin is important. A business-strike 2013 Lincoln cent from Philadelphia or Denver is worth only face value in circulated condition. But the 2013-S version, made for collectors, commands a real premium — especially in high grades.
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2013-S Lincoln Penny Value by Grade
Grading is everything when it comes to coin values. The professional grading scale runs from 1 to 70, and proof coins like the 2013-S are graded a bit differently than circulation coins. Here’s a general breakdown of what collectors and dealers are willing to pay:
| Grade | Description | Estimated Value |
|---|---|---|
| PR-65 | Gem Proof, minor contact marks | $2 – $4 |
| PR-65 DCAM | Deep Cameo, strong frosted devices | $5 – $10 |
| PR-69 DCAM | Near-perfect Deep Cameo | $10 – $18 |
| PR-70 DCAM | Perfect Proof, flawless surfaces | $20 – $35+ |
For the most up-to-date auction results and dealer prices, you can check live 2013-S Lincoln penny price data at CoinHix, which tracks real market transactions across major platforms.
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How Cameo and Deep Cameo Designations Affect the Price
One of the biggest factors driving the value of a 2013-S Lincoln Penny isn’t just the grade number — it’s the cameo designation. Proof coins can receive three possible surface designations: regular proof (no designation), cameo (CAM), and deep cameo (DCAM). Deep cameo coins have the most dramatic contrast between the frosted, raised design elements and the mirror-like fields in the background.
Collectors absolutely love the look of a deep cameo proof, and that demand shows up directly in the price. A 2013-S penny graded PR-65 with no cameo designation might sell for just a dollar or two, while the same coin with a DCAM label could fetch three to five times more. At the PR-69 and PR-70 levels, the deep cameo premium becomes even more significant.
CoinHix is a great tool for tracking how cameo designations affect prices in real time. The app pulls in auction results so you can see exactly what buyers are paying for each grade and surface combination right now.
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Where to Buy or Sell a 2013-S Lincoln Penny
If you’re looking to sell, the good news is that there’s a steady market for 2013-S proof pennies, especially in higher grades. eBay is one of the most active venues, with dozens of listings at any given time. Coin shows, local dealers, and online auction platforms like Heritage Auctions are also solid options for coins graded by PCGS or NGC.
For a broader picture of how the 2013-S stacks up in today’s market, the 2013 penny value guide at CoinValueApp offers a helpful breakdown of pricing across different conditions and mint marks — including comparisons to the Philadelphia and Denver issues from the same year.
If you’re a buyer, raw (ungraded) 2013-S pennies from original proof sets are still easy to find at very affordable prices. If you want a certified example for your registry set, look for PCGS or NGC-slabbed coins in PR-69 DCAM or PR-70 DCAM — those are the grades most sought after by serious collectors.
Using CoinHix before you buy or sell can save you from overpaying or undervaluing a coin. The app gives you a realistic price range based on what collectors are actually spending, not just asking prices.
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FAQ
Q: Is the 2013-S Lincoln Penny rare?
A: Not particularly. The U.S. Mint produced several million 2013-S proof pennies as part of annual proof sets. They’re widely available, but their collector appeal keeps values above face value, especially in top grades.
Q: Can I find a 2013-S penny in everyday pocket change?
A: Very unlikely. The 2013-S was only made for proof sets and was never released into circulation. If you find a penny with an “S” mint mark in your change, have it checked — but don’t get your hopes too high, as earlier S-mint pennies are also not particularly rare.
Q: Does it matter if my 2013-S penny is still in the original proof set packaging?
A: Yes, it can. Coins still in their original government packaging are often in better condition than those that have been removed and handled. However, for maximum value, having the coin professionally graded and slabbed by PCGS or NGC is usually the best route if you believe it’s a PR-69 or PR-70.
