How Much Is A 1965 Penny Worth?

Last Updated on August 15, 2022

Pennies don’t have a high value because they are not that rare. They are made in significant numbers for circulation so that everyone can benefit from them.

Most of these pennies will not be worth more than their face value. Here is a complete guide to help you understand the worth of a 1965 penny. 

1965 Gem Special Mint Set SMS Lincoln Memorial Cent Penny Uncirculated US Mint

Contents

How Much Is A 1965 Penny Worth?

The 1965 penny is a common one, and you will easily find it if you want to add it to your collection. The worth of the 1965 penny in circulated conditions will be worth two cents according to the current copper melt value.

However, if you find these pennies in uncirculated conditions, then they can be worth between ten and thirty cents. Some of the pennies that are in even better condition will be worth even more.

For example, a 1965 penny with a grade of MS67 was sold for more than $600 in an auction in 2012. That is why you must understand the grade and type of coin before you decide to sell or buy it. 

How Much Is A 1965 SMS Penny Worth?

1965 SMS Penny  Estimated Worth 
Circulated Condition Two cents 
Uncirculated Condition  50 cents and $1

There are no proof sets for the 1965 penny, as the US Mint substituted them for the SMS (Special Mint Set) pennies. These are coin sets of five coins that include coins with a proof-like surface. You will notice that the SMS pennies share qualities with circulation and proof pieces. 

The US Mint made more than 2,300,000 of the 1965 SMS penny. If you find these coins in circulated conditions, they will not be worth more than two cents. On the other hand, if the grade is high, then it can be worth between 50 cents and $1. 

One of the most valuable SMS pennies was sold for more than $4,000 in 2004. That is why if you come across this coin in mint condition and high grade, then you must hold onto it. It can give you a high value for a long time to come. 

What Is The Value Of 1965 Error Pennies?

1965 Gem Special Mint Set SMS Lincoln Memorial Cent Penny Uncirculated US Mint

Type of 1965 Error Penny Estimated Worth
Double Die Error $10 and $50
Die Crack Error $5 and $100 or above
BIE Error $5 and $10

Error pennies have a high value than standard coins because they are relatively rare. You will not find these errors coins in your pocket change. If you do, you must hold onto the error coin and get it graded by a professional to understand the value. 

The double-die error is the most common, but the 1965 penny doesn’t have any major double-die errors. Instead, you might find some minor double-die errors on the coin. Such error coins can have a value between $10 and $50. 

Another error that you will find on the 1965 penny is a die break or crack. The value will depend on how large the error is and the grade of the coin. However, you can expect the value of this error coin to be around $5 and $10 for small die breaks and over $100 for larger errors. 

Finally, there is also a BIE error penny on the 1965 penny that includes an “I” between “B” and “E” on the word Liberty. Coin collectors highly prize these error coins, but most of them trade for $5 or $10. Of course, if the error is significant, then the value will be higher. 

Are There Any 1965 Pennies Worth Money?

1965 Gem Special Mint Set SMS Lincoln Memorial Cent Penny Uncirculated US Mint

The 1965 pennies are a common variety, which is why you will not find any worth thousands of dollars. Most of these pennies are available in circulated conditions, and they will be worth their weight in copper. Of course, the pennies in uncirculated conditions will give you a relatively higher value. 

There are no rare and valuable 1965 pennies that have been documented until now. If you find a rare penny, then you must keep it close as it might sell for hundreds or thousands of dollars at an auction. Besides that, most of the 1965 pennies are not worth a lot of money as of now.

Jackie Palmer is a Houston-based coin journalist and fashion enthusiast. She joined Jewels Advisor’s content team after years of experience as a content strategist, managing blogs and social channels for local stores. Jackie mostly collects and studies US coins produced during the 20th century and over the years, published hundreds of articles for multiple coin publications.