In 1792, the United States created a one cent coin that contained a picture of a woman with flowing hair that stood for liberty. In 1909, this coin was replaced with the Lincoln cent, minted in honor of the 16th President. The union shield appeared on the reverse in 2010, and many other designs were on the penny before the shield.
DESIGN
The front of the Lincoln cent is a picture of Abraham Lincoln himself, 16th President of the United States. The words “In God We Trust” are etched across the top of the coin.
Designer: Victor Brenner
The back of the Lincoln cent depicts a banner with the words “one cent” written across the union shield. This was created in 2010.
Designer: Lyndall Bass
HISTORY
In 1909, Abraham Lincoln was the first historical figure to be placed on a coin in the United States and this was to commemorate his 100th birthday. This coin also was the first to have the words “In God We Trust” inscribed. From 1959 to 2007, Lincoln appeared on both sides. On the reverse, he was seated in the Lincoln Memorial.
FACTS
Country
United States of America
Mint
United States Mint
Metal
95% copper, 5% tin and zinc was the original make up of the Lincoln cent. Currently, the coins are 97.5% zinc, 2.5% copper.
Weight
Originally was 3.11 grams, and now is 2.5 grams
Diameter
19.0 mm
Thickness
1.52 mm
Date Issued
1909
Face Value
$0.01