Lincoln Cent (Wheat Reverse, although the reverse is not visible, the date confirms it's a Lincoln Cent, and the typical composition for this year suggests a Wheat or Memorial Cent)

Brief Description

The obverse features the bust of Abraham Lincoln facing right, with 'IN GOD WE TRUST' above, 'LIBERTY' to his left, and the year '1961' and mint mark 'D' (for Denver) to his right. The color appears to be a typical reddish-brown for a copper cent.

Historical Significance

The Lincoln Cent, first issued in 1909, commemorated the 100th anniversary of Abraham Lincoln's birth. It was the first widely circulated American coin to feature a real person rather than an allegorical figure. The 1961-D cent is part of the Lincoln Memorial Reverse series, which began in 1959, though the image provided only shows the obverse. It was a common circulating coin of its era.

Estimated Value

Very low, typically 5 to 25 cents in circulated condition, depending on its exact condition. Uncirculated examples can fetch slightly more, generally under $1.

Care Instructions

To preserve the coin's condition, handle it by the edges to avoid transferring oils from your skin. Store it in a cool, dry place, ideally in an archival-safe holder like a 2x2 flip or an album designed for coins. Avoid cleaning the coin, as this can devalue it significantly.

Created At: 2025-10-29T21:25:13.775308