Coin Identifier
Lincoln Wheat Cent
One Cent ($0.01)

Lincoln Wheat Cent

United States of America · 1956

The obverse features a profile of Abraham Lincoln facing right, with the 'D' mint mark indicating it was struck in Denver. The reverse (not shown but characteristic of this era) features two stalks of wheat framing the words 'ONE CENT' and 'UNITED STATES OF AMERICA'.

Country
United States of America
Year
1956
Denomination
One Cent ($0.01)
Metal
95% copper, 5% tin and zinc

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Overview

The obverse features a profile of Abraham Lincoln facing right, with the 'D' mint mark indicating it was struck in Denver. The reverse (not shown but characteristic of this era) features two stalks of wheat framing the words 'ONE CENT' and 'UNITED STATES OF AMERICA'.

Historical significance

The Lincoln Cent was the first US coin to feature a real person's portrait, replacing the Indian Head cent in 1909 to commemorate the centennial of Lincoln's birth. The 'Wheat' reverse design was used from 1909 until 1958, making this one of the final years of the original design before it was changed to the Lincoln Memorial reverse in 1959.

Estimated value

$0.02 - $0.05 (in circulated condition)

Care & preservation

Do not clean the coin, as scrubbing or using chemicals can damage the natural patina and significantly reduce its numismatic value. Store in a cool, dry place inside a non-PVC coin flip or holder to prevent environmental damage like the green oxidation (verdigris) visible on the surface.