Numismatic

1973 Lincoln Cent BU (Red)

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The 1973 Lincoln Cent represents a classic era of modern American pocket change, boasting a vibrant copper composition that was later phased out of regular production. Struck at the Philadelphia Mint, this coin is composed of 95 percent copper, with the remaining 5 percent consisting of a tin and zinc alloy. This specific metal mixture gives the coin its classic weight and rich reddish tone, which is beautifully preserved in its brilliant uncirculated state. On the obverse, the familiar right-facing bust of Abraham Lincoln dominates the design, created by Victor David Brenner. The legendary mottoes of American coinage frame the president, with "IN GOD WE TRUST" arching above his head and the word "LIBERTY" positioned to his left. The date 1973 is clearly struck to the right of the portrait. The reverse features the Lincoln Memorial design, which was created by Frank Gasparro and minted continuously from 1959 to 2008. This detailed architectural depiction of the Washington, D.C. landmark is accompanied by the traditional inscriptions "UNITED STATES OF AMERICA" and "ONE CENT", along with the Latin motto "E PLURIBUS UNUM" nestled above the monument roof.