1 Cent (Penny)

Lincoln Cent

United States of America · Based on the visible Lincoln Memorial design on the reverse, the coin was minted between 1959 and 2008. Without a clearer image of the date, a precise year cannot be determined.

The image shows a coin, likely a US Lincoln Cent, with the reverse side visible. Although details are obscured, the coin appears to have the Lincoln Memorial design, indicating it's a post-1959 penny. The color suggests it is made of copper or copper-plated zinc.

Country: United States of America
Denomination: 1 Cent (Penny)

This report is AI-generated and can be wrong. Always verify grade, authenticity, and value with a qualified dealer or certified grading service before buying, selling, or insuring.

Identified July 5, 2025More united states of america coins →

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Overview

Historical significance

The Lincoln Cent, first issued in 1909 to commemorate Abraham Lincoln's 100th birthday, was the first circulating U.S. coin to feature a real person rather than an allegorical figure. The reverse design changed from the Wheat Ears to the Lincoln Memorial in 1959, marking the 150th anniversary of Lincoln's birth and the 50th anniversary of the coin's introduction. This design was used until 2008.

Estimated value

Most Lincoln Cents from 1959 onwards, especially those made of copper-plated zinc, are generally worth face value (1 cent) or slightly more, depending on their condition and mintage year. Uncirculated examples or those with specific mint marks and errors can fetch more, but circulating examples typically have minimal numismatic value above their face value.

Care & preservation

Handle the coin by its edges to avoid transferring oils from your skin, which can cause discoloration. Store in a cool, dry place, ideally in an inert holder like a Mylar flip or a non-PVC coin album. Avoid cleaning the coin as this can decrease its numismatic value.