The Lincoln Memorial Cent has been an iconic part of American coinage since its introduction in 1959. This coin was designed to commemorate the 150th birth anniversary of President Abraham Lincoln, replacing the beloved Wheat Cent that had been in circulation since 1909. The obverse of the Lincoln Memorial Cent retained the timeless portrait of Lincoln by Victor D. Brenner, while the reverse featured a detailed depiction of the Lincoln Memorial designed by Frank Gasparro.
At the time of its release, some critics felt that the Memorial design was too simplistic compared to the intricate wheat ears of the previous reverse. However, over the decades, the Lincoln Memorial Cent has secured its place in U.S. numismatic history, appreciated by collectors and history enthusiasts alike.
Design and Composition Evolution
The Lincoln Memorial Cent initially retained the traditional bronze composition—95% copper, along with 5% tin and zinc. However, due to a shortage of tin in the early 1960s, the U.S. Mint altered the composition in late 1962. The new alloy was brass—95% copper and 5% zinc. Despite this change, collectors often refer to all pre-1982 Memorial cents as “bronze” issues. Throughout its entire run, the coin maintained a weight of 3.11 grams, a 19mm diameter, and a plain edge, ensuring consistency in size and feel.
Collecting and Popular Varieties
For numismatists, the Lincoln Memorial Cent series offers countless opportunities for collection and exploration. Professional grading services categorize these coins based on color, with designations like Brown (BN), Red-Brown (RB), and Red (RD). While most dates remain relatively affordable in circulated condition, examples in top grades such as MS67 or higher can command significant premiums due to their rarity.
Certain varieties within the series have become legendary among collectors. The 1969-S Doubled Die Obverse, for example, is a standout error that fetches impressive sums at auction. Other notable varieties include the 1960 D Over D, 1970-S Small Date, and the 1972 Doubled Die Obverse. Proof coins from this series, particularly those with Cameo or Deep Cameo contrasts, are also highly sought after by enthusiasts.
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The 1974 Aluminum Cent Experiment
One of the most fascinating chapters in the history of the Lincoln Memorial Cent revolves around the 1974 aluminum cent experiment. In response to rising copper prices, the U.S. Mint struck over 1.5 million aluminum cents as a potential alternative to the traditional copper-based alloy. However, these coins faced significant pushback from the vending machine industry due to compatibility issues. Ultimately, the Mint abandoned the project, and nearly all the aluminum cents were melted down. Private ownership of these coins remains illegal today, and only a few known specimens—like the one housed in the Smithsonian Institution—exist as relics of what could have been a major shift in American coinage.
The 1982 Transition to Zinc
The Lincoln Memorial Cent underwent another significant change in 1982 when the rising cost of copper forced the U.S. Mint to switch to a new composition: copper-plated zinc. This change reduced the coin’s weight from 3.11 grams to 2.5 grams, marking a clear distinction between pre- and post-1982 issues. Today, collectors often seek both copper and zinc versions of the 1982 cents as part of a complete set.
Resources for Collectors
For those eager to explore the Lincoln Memorial Cent in depth, several excellent resources are available. Q. David Bowers’ A Guide Book of Lincoln Cents offers invaluable insights into the series’ history and varieties. Additionally, David Lange’s Complete Guide to Lincoln Cents is another essential reference for understanding the nuances of this iconic coin. These resources help collectors navigate the complexities of this extensive series, from basic date sets to advanced variety collections.
Enduring Popularity and Value
The Lincoln Memorial Cent remains one of the most collected U.S. coins. Its affordability and historical significance make it a perfect starting point for new collectors and a nostalgic favorite for seasoned hobbyists. Whether you’re interested in assembling a complete date set, hunting for key varieties, or simply enjoying the beauty and history of these coins, the Lincoln Memorial Cent offers endless opportunities for discovery.
In summary, the Lincoln Memorial Cent stands as a tribute to one of America’s greatest leaders and a testament to the evolving story of U.S. coinage. From its debut in 1959 to its final minting in 2008, this humble penny has left an indelible mark on numismatics. For collectors of all experience levels, it represents not just a coin but a rich piece of American history.
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