Numismatic

1960 Lincoln Cent Small Date BU

---

In 1960, the United States Mint produced a subtle variation in its minor coinage that continues to captivate observers today. The Philadelphia Mint struck a distinct Small Date version of the Lincoln Cent, characterized by the delicate proportions of the numbers in the date. This copper piece, preserved in Brilliant Uncirculated condition, highlights the crisp details of a mid-century classic. The obverse features the familiar right-facing portrait of Abraham Lincoln, a design created by Victor David Brenner. Legible inscriptions surrounding the bust include the national motto, IN GOD WE TRUST, along with LIBERTY and the small-numeral date of 1960. The copper alloy composition of this coin consists of 95 percent copper, with the remaining 5 percent made of tin and zinc. On the reverse, the Lincoln Memorial design by Frank Gasparro is showcased. This architectural depiction served as the standard reverse for the penny from 1959 to 2008. The reverse inscriptions read UNITED STATES OF AMERICA, ONE CENT, and the traditional Latin phrase E PLURIBUS UNUM, completing a snapshot of American coinage history.