Numismatic

1909 Lincoln Cent AU

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The year 1909 marked a significant transformation in United States coinage with the introduction of the Lincoln Cent. This particular specimen, preserved in Almost Uncirculated condition, represents the very beginning of one of the longest-running and most beloved coin series in American history. Crafted from a traditional alloy of 95 percent copper alongside 5 percent tin and zinc, this coin retains much of its original luster and detail from the Philadelphia Mint. Designed by Victor David Brenner, the obverse of the coin features a detailed profile bust of President Abraham Lincoln facing right. This design was groundbreaking, as it was the first regular-issue US coin to depict a real historical person rather than a symbolic figure of Liberty. Above the portrait, the timeless motto "IN GOD WE TRUST" is inscribed, while "LIBERTY" stands to the left and the historic date "1909" is positioned to the right. The reverse of the coin displays a minimalist yet elegant design, also created by Brenner. It features two stylized wheat ears framing the central inscriptions of the denomination "ONE CENT" and the country of origin "UNITED STATES OF AMERICA". At the very top curve, the Latin motto "E PLURIBUS UNUM" is proudly displayed, completing a design that would define the pocket change of generations of Americans.