Numismatic

1984 Lincoln Cent BU (Red)

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The 1984 Lincoln Cent represents a fascinating era in modern American minting. Struck at the Philadelphia Mint, this coin features a composition of 99.2 percent zinc with a thin outer coating of 0.8 percent copper. Because this metal mixture was relatively new for the series, early zinc cents from this period often display unique minting characteristics, such as bubbling or tiny raised dots on the copper surface, adding an intriguing physical texture for observers to study. The obverse features the classic right-facing portrait of Abraham Lincoln, originally created by Victor David Brenner. Legible inscriptions on this side include the national motto IN GOD WE TRUST, the word LIBERTY, and the date 1984. On the reverse, designed by Frank Gasparro, the Lincoln Memorial is depicted in detailed relief. This reverse design was a staple of the penny from 1959 to 2008. The legendary Latin phrase E PLURIBUS UNUM sits above the monument, while the surrounding inscriptions read UNITED STATES OF AMERICA and the denomination, ONE CENT. Weighing 2.5 grams, this coin is preserved in Brilliant Uncirculated condition, showing off its original red luster.