Expert: Jim Lawniczak - 5/31/2009

Question
I have a penny that is dated 1898 is in immaculate condition, no scratches,
dents, etc.  the lettering and date is super clear to read as well as raised letters
and not flattened through use or age. Can you tell me what this penny is worth?

Answer
Silvia, if you are talking about the U.S. Indian head penny, its value depends on condition.  There are several conditions where the coin is indeed in very nice, super clear shape -- extremely fine, about uncirculated and uncirculated, and the uncirculated grades today are broken down into 10 subcategories.  So, the answer is it depends.  You need someone with good grading experience to look at your coin.  Please do not do anything to try to improve condition -- you will only worsen it, perhaps even substantially.  Also, do not handle an "uncirculated" coin -- by doing so, you could easily make it circulated and reduce value sharply.  Try going to www.ebay.com and doing a search for 1898 cent and 1898 penny.  Quite a few will come up and you'll see a lot with pictures.  The coins that are "certified" are graded by third party experts.  You'll be able to see what prices are requested and what bid.  Hope this helped, Jim Lawniczak