Lincoln Cent

Country of Origin: United States

Year of Issue: 1983

Denomination: One Cent

Composition: 95% Copper, 5% Zinc (prior to mid-1982); 97.5% Zinc, 2.5% Copper (mid-1982 and later)

Lincoln Cent

Brief Description

The coin features a profile of Abraham Lincoln on the obverse, facing right. The words "IN GOD WE TRUST" are inscribed above his head, "LIBERTY" to his left, and the year "1983" to his right. The reverse typically features the Lincoln Memorial.

Historical Significance

The Lincoln Cent, first minted in 1909 to commemorate the 100th anniversary of Abraham Lincoln's birth, was the first U.S. coin to feature a real person. The design remained largely unchanged for decades. The year 1983 is notable as it falls within the period when the composition of the penny transitioned from primarily copper to primarily zinc due to the rising cost of copper.

Estimated Value

Pennies from 1983 are generally worth face value (1 cent) in worn condition. Uncirculated examples may fetch a few cents more, and those with errors can be worth significantly more.

Care Instructions

To preserve the coin's condition, handle it by the edges to avoid transferring oils from your skin. Store it in a dry, cool environment, preferably in a non-PVC holder or album designed for coin collection.

Created At: 2025-05-31T18:45:25.061992