Expert: PAPAJACK - 10/18/2006

Question
I have a penny with lincoln on it smoking a pipe its year is 1972 its in great shape worth any thing? I also have a penny that says army navy on the back of it. any info would help.
thank you


Answer
Hello Ellie,

The Lincoln on it smoking a pipe coin you describe is a well-known piece.

This coin is not an error or an official issue, but a novelty that was made by someone who manipulated a regular U.S. one-cent coin by simply stamping an image of the pipe after the fact.  

These fantasy coins hold no numismatic value. They are worth only a cent, maybe more as a conversation piece. The cent was a normal coin prior to it's disfigurement.

The Other piece is a Civil War Token. They sell from $8 to $12 dollars depending on the issue.
Some were made in quantity since there was hoarding of all copper, silver and gold coins during the civil war. They were needed for everyday commerce.

I hope this information helps. Please remember to rate this answer. And check the nomination box on the rating page below any comments you may have.

Good Luck

PapaJack