The Survival Estimate represents an average of one or more experts' opinions as to how many examples survive of a particular coin in three categories: 1) all grades, 2) 60 or better, and 3) 65 or better. These estimates are based on a variety of sources, including population reports, auction appearances, and personal knowledge. Survival estimates include coins that are raw, certified by PCGS, and certified by other grading services.
Numismatic Rarity
Numismatic Rarity converts the Survival Estimate for a particular coin into a number from 1 to 10 (with decimal increments) based on the PCGS Rarity Scale. The higher the number, the more rare the coin.
Relative Rarity By Type
Relative Rarity By Type ranks the rarity of this coin with all other coins of this Type. Lower numbers indicate rarer coins.
Relative Rarity By Series
Relative Rarity By Series ranks the rarity of this coin with all other coins of this Series. Lower numbers indicate rarer coins.
Jaime Hernandez:
The 1916 Matte Proof Lincoln cent has the lowest mintage for the entire Matte Proof
Lincoln cent series, including all non error proof Lincoln cents produced from 1909 to date.
With a total of 600 coins produced, about half of the mintage is still known to exist. It is not the scarcest Matte Proof Lincoln cent since the 1909 V.D.B. is the scarcest. However, the 1916 is the second scarcest cent in the matte proof Lincoln cent series. Additionally, it is also the scarcest one found with complete and original Red surfaces.
Most examples of this coin exist with Red Brown surfaces. This is due, mainly because the Mint at the
time, was packaging proof coins inside tissue paper which contained sulfur. Consequently, causing the coins to naturally tone over time.
Most all 1916 Matte Proof's are very well stuck and exhibit well defined and sharp characteristics. Noteworthy, many 1916 business strike cents are also very well struck and many times, they are confused with the more expensive proof coins. Therefore, authentication is highly recommended.
PCGS is not responsible for the accuracy or authenticity of Ebay listings.