1981 Type 2 Proof Lincoln Cent

aka "Clear S Mintmark"

Filled S or Clear S????

In 1979, the proof coins' S mintmark came in two varieties referenced as Type 1 for the "filled" mintmark and Type 2 for the "clear" mintmark.  The clear mintmark proof coins are the rarer of the two and worth more.  Determining the 1979 mintmark as being "clear" or "filled" is relatively easy as can be done without a loupe or magnifying glass in most cases.

In 1981, the proof coins' S mintmark came in two varieties, like the 1979 for the Type 1 and Type 2, but differing a great deal in determining one from another.  The term "clear" for the Type 2 and "filled" for the Type 1 in the 1981 proof coins are really not a correct way to determine the difference between the two as it was for the 1979 proof coins.  Some price guides and reference books list the 1981 proof coins as clear and filled, because the 1979 proof coins were filled or clear, when in fact the 1981 proof coins mintmark are really both "clear" and the difference is in the shape and contour of the mintmark.   The above is an example of a 1981 Type 2 "Clear" S Lincoln Cent.  The "Filled" mintmark of the same year (1981) is really clear and just shaped differently around the serif of the S and is not as rounded and flat on the ends.  Determining the difference is extremely difficult for both mint marks in the 1981 proof coins.  I hope this helps and please have your coins looked at by a honest, reputable dealer to determine this difference because the price difference on some are substantial, i.e. 1981 SBA Dollar Type 2.