Lincoln Memorial Cent Encased in Political Campaign Token
Country of Origin: United States of America
Year of Issue: 1972
Denomination: 1 Cent
Composition: Coin: 95% copper, 5% zinc; Encasement: Aluminum
Brief Description
A 1972-D Lincoln Cent encased in a horseshoe-shaped or circular aluminum ring featuring political campaign slogans for Ralph M. Hall.
Historical Significance
Encased coins were popular promotional items. This specific piece is a political memento for Ralph M. Hall's campaign for Lieutenant Governor of Texas. Hall later became a long-serving U.S. Congressman from Texas.
Estimated Value
$5 - $15 to a political memorabilia or exonumia collector
Care Instructions
Do not attempt to remove the cent from the aluminum casing, as this will damage both items. Store in a PVC-free flip to prevent aluminum oxidation.
Mint Mark
D (Denver Mint)
Mintage & Rarity
Common coin; the specific campaign encasement is scarce but limited to niche regional interest.
Weight & Diameter
Approx. 3.11g (coin only); Total diameter approx. 32-35mm
Edge
Plain
Apparent Grade
About Uncirculated to Mint State (Cent retains original luster; aluminum shows light handling marks).
Obverse (Front)
Standard Lincoln Cent obverse featuring Abraham Lincoln; outer aluminum ring reads 'RALPH M. HALL FOR LT. GOVERNOR'.
Reverse (Back)
Standard Lincoln Memorial reverse; outer aluminum ring reads 'ELECT RALPH M. HALL YOUR LT. GOVERNOR "ALL FOR HALL FROM ROCKWALL"'.
What Drives This Coin's Value
Condition of both the coin and the aluminum casing; the popularity/relevance of the political figure.
Similar Coins
Other 1972-D Lincoln cents or different encased 'lucky' pennies with lucky horseshoe themes.
Authenticity & Counterfeit Red Flags
Check for the 'D' mint mark and ensuring the encasement is genuine aluminum rather than plastic.
Notable Varieties & Errors
The 1972 cent is famous for a Doubled Die Obverse, but this 'D' mint mark specimen is not that variety.
Created At: 2026-06-25T04:04:11.538047