Numismatic

1909 Lincoln Cent BU

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The year 1909 marked a monumental shift in American coinage with the introduction of the Lincoln cent, replacing the long-running Indian Head design. This inaugural issue features a detailed portrait of Abraham Lincoln on the obverse, facing right. Above his likeness, the national motto of trust is inscribed, flanked by the word of freedom to his left and the date of manufacture to his right. The reverse of this copper coin is framed by two stylized stalks of wheat, curving along the left and right borders. These agricultural wreaths flank the central denomination and the country of origin. This specific initial release is highly notable for including the initials of the designer, Victor David Brenner, positioned at the very bottom of the reverse design. Struck at the Philadelphia Mint, this specimen survives in brilliant uncirculated condition, preserving the original copper luster and sharp details of the first-year design. It represents the beginning of the longest-running design in the history of United States coinage.