Numismatic

1916 Lincoln Cent BU (Red/Brown)

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In 1916, the United States Mint in Philadelphia produced a copper cent that remains a classic of American coinage. This particular specimen survives in Brilliant Uncirculated condition, showing off the warm red and brown tones that copper naturally develops over more than a century. The preservation of these original surfaces offers a direct window into the early years of this enduring coin series. The obverse of the coin features a detailed profile bust of Abraham Lincoln, facing right. Above his portrait, the familiar motto "IN GOD WE TRUST" is inscribed, while the word "LIBERTY" stands to his left, and the date "1916" is positioned to his right. This design, created by Victor David Brenner, marked a significant departure from previous American coinage by featuring a real historical figure. On the reverse, the coin displays its original "Wheat Penny" design. Two stylized ears of wheat frame the central inscriptions, which state the denomination "ONE CENT" and the country of origin "UNITED STATES OF AMERICA". At the top rim, the traditional Latin motto "E PLURIBUS UNUM" is clearly visible, completing a design that came to define the pocket change of generations.