Lincoln Cent (Union Shield Reverse)
Country of Origin: United States of America
Year of Issue: 2018
Denomination: One Cent ($0.01)
Composition: Copper-Plated Zinc (97.5% Zinc, 2.5% Copper)
Brief Description
A copper-colored modern US penny featuring Abraham Lincoln on the obverse and a Union shield on the reverse. The coin appears heavily toned, stained, or environmentally damaged.
Historical Significance
The Union Shield design was introduced in 2010 to represent President Lincoln\'s preservation of the United States as a single unified country. It replaced the four Bicentennial designs of 2009.
Estimated Value
$0.01 (Face value). High-grade uncirculated examples (MS-67+) can reach $20-$50, but this specimen is worth only face value due to damage.
Care Instructions
Avoid cleaning as this can further damage the surface. Generally, modern zinc pennies should be kept in a dry environment to prevent 'zinc rot' or corrosion if the copper plating is breached.
Mint Mark
D (Denver Mint)
Mintage & Rarity
Common; approximately 3,901,200,000 were minted in Denver in 2018.
Weight & Diameter
2.5 grams | 19.05 mm
Edge
Plain
Apparent Grade
Environmental Damage (Details Grade). The coin is heavily stained/discolored, likely from exposure to chemicals, soil, or heat.
Obverse (Front)
Features the bust of Abraham Lincoln facing right, originally designed by Victor David Brenner. Includes the legends 'IN GOD WE TRUST', 'LIBERTY', and the date '2018' with a 'D' mint mark.
Reverse (Back)
Features a Union Shield with 13 vertical stripes and a horizontal bar with 'E PLURIBUS UNUM'. A scroll draped across the shield reads 'ONE CENT'. Designed by Lyndall Bass.
What Drives This Coin's Value
Condition/Grade is the primary factor for this common modern coin. Error coins (doubled dies) also carry premiums.
Similar Coins
Lincoln Memorial Cents (1959–2008), Wheat Cents (1909–1958), and 2009 Bicentennial Cents.
Authenticity & Counterfeit Red Flags
Authnicity is rarely an issue for this date. Check for the correct weight (2.5g) to ensure it is not a fake planchet or a struck-on-different-metal error.
Notable Varieties & Errors
No major recognized varieties for 2018-D, though collectors look for minor doubled dies or striking errors.
Created At: 2026-05-28T09:04:22.379023