The United States Mint struck this penny in Denver in 2013.
It belongs to the long-running Lincoln Cent series.
The front shows the familiar portrait of Abraham Lincoln.
The back features the Union Shield design that began in 2010.
This coin is made of a zinc core coated in a thin layer of pure copper.
The RD label stands for Red, meaning the coin still has all its original mint luster.
The Denver Mint produced billions of pennies that year for everyday commerce.
Almost all of them went straight into circulation and picked up scratches right away.
A top-quality example of this coin brought $2,750 in an eBay Auction.
The winning bid happened during a sale in 1/19.
Professional coin graders certified the penny at the MS-69 Red level.
The MS stands for Mint State, which means the coin never circulated in daily change.
The number 69 sits just one single point away from a theoretically perfect 70.
In practical terms, an MS-69 grade allows only one tiny, nearly invisible manufacturing flaw.
High-end registry set collectors compete aggressively for modern coins preserved at this elite level.
That collector rivalry is what drove the final price so high for a modern zinc penny.
Billions of these pennies exist, but almost none survived in near-flawless shape.
Modern copper-plated zinc coins are notoriously difficult to find without surface issues.
The thin copper plating often develops small black spots or plating blisters shortly after striking.
Contact marks from heavy mint bags also ruin the surfaces of most fresh coins before they leave the facility.
Finding a 2013 Denver cent with glowing red color and spotless fields is extremely unusual.
This coin is a classic condition rarity rather than a low-mintage variety.
The value comes entirely from its extraordinary state of preservation.
Pocket change from this year is generally worth just face value.
Start by looking at the date on the front right side of the coin.
You need to see the year 2013 clearly stamped below Lincoln's bust.
Look directly under the date for a small letter D to confirm the Denver Mint struck it.
Turn the coin over to make sure it displays the Union Shield on the reverse.
Weigh the coin on a small digital scale to confirm the standard zinc weight of 2.5 grams.
Use a 5x or 10x jeweler loupe to inspect both sides under a bright light.
Check the smooth fields for any carbon spots, milky stains, or handling marks.
The copper color must be bright, unbroken red across the entire surface.
If you want a quick initial scan before buying a magnifier, the CoinKnow app can help you verify the date and design details from your phone.
A coin must be virtually flawless under magnification to even be considered for an elite MS-69 grade.
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