What is the value of a 1979 double etched penny with both Lincoln and Kennedy on it?

Answer

This is a novelty item created outside the mint by stamping the little Kennedy bust next to Lincoln of a real cent. Usually sold accompanied by a card listing similiarities between the two assasinated Presidents (Lincoln was shot in Ford's Theater and Kennedy was shot in a Lincoln (product of Ford Motor Co.) etc.) Sold for about $1 in Woolworths in the early 70's. Didn't think they would still be making them as late as 1979.

Answer

These "Lincoln Facing Kennedy" pennies were made by private companies -- mostly in the 1970's -- that took a normal penny and stamped a portrait of President Kennedy facing President Lincoln on the front of the coin. They were normally attached to some kind of card that listed the "Astonishing Coincidences" between the two presidents. The card was usually stamped with a company name & address, and they were often given out as an advertising gimmick by small businesses to attract customers.

You can see a list of these "Astonishing Coincidences" here :

http://www.workingmancoins.comHistoryLinKenFacts.jpg

Dan Moore

The Working Man's Rare Coins

http://www.workingmancoins.com

Answer

Also, note that:

- a lot of the "coincidences" require a bit of fact-stretching.

- coins are minted, not etched. Etching uses acid to dissolve metal or another substance from on top of a substrate.

First answer by anonymous. Last edit by JayKay. Contributor trust: 1111 [recommend contributor]. Question popularity: 165 [recommend question]