Lincoln Bicentennial Cent, 2009 : A Collector’s Guide:- In 2009, the United States Mint released a special series of Lincoln Cents to commemorate the bicentennial of President Abraham Lincoln’s birth.
The Lincoln Bicentennial Cent Series was a significant departure from the traditional design that had been in use for nearly 100 years.
The series consists of four different reverse designs that represent key aspects of Lincoln’s life: his birth, his early childhood, his professional life, and his presidency. These coins were issued as part of a year-long tribute to Lincoln, one of the most revered figures in American history.
For collectors, the 2009 Lincoln Bicentennial Cent Series offers not only a tribute to the 16th president of the United States but also a wide range of collecting opportunities.
In this guide, we will explore the history, design, mintage, and value of the Lincoln Bicentennial Cent, as well as some essential tips for collectors.
History of the Lincoln Bicentennial Cent Series
Abraham Lincoln was born on February 12, 1809, in a log cabin in Hardin County (now LaRue County), Kentucky. To commemorate the 200th anniversary of his birth, Congress authorized the U.S. Mint to issue a series of Lincoln Cents in 2009 with four new reverse designs.
The decision to change the design was part of an effort to pay tribute to Lincoln’s legacy and highlight key moments from his life.
The 2009 Lincoln Bicentennial Cent Series was not the first time the U.S. Mint had altered the design of the Lincoln Cent. The original Lincoln Cent was introduced in 1909 to mark the 100th anniversary of Lincoln’s birth.
This coin featured Victor David Brenner’s iconic portrait of Lincoln on the obverse, which remains in use today.
To mark Lincoln’s bicentennial, the Mint designed four new reverse images, each representing a different stage of Lincoln’s life. These reverse designs were created by a variety of artists, including Lenard W. F. ‘Johnson and Charles Vickers, and were intended to reflect Lincoln’s early life, his formative years, his legal career, and his presidency.
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The Four Reverse Designs of the 2009 Lincoln Bicentennial Cent
The 2009 Lincoln Bicentennial Cent Series consists of four distinct reverse designs, each focusing on a different period of Lincoln’s life.
1. Birth and Early Childhood (First Design – Released in 2009)
- Design: This design depicts a log cabin, symbolizing Lincoln’s humble beginnings in Kentucky. The image shows Lincoln’s birthplace, reflecting the hardships he faced growing up in a one-room log cabin with limited resources.
- Significance: Lincoln was born into poverty, and his early life in a log cabin is central to the story of his rise from humble beginnings to becoming the 16th president of the United States.
- Mintage: The log cabin design was issued in early 2009.
2. Formative Years in Indiana (Second Design – Released in 2009)
- Design: The second design of the Bicentennial Cent features a young Lincoln reading a book in the Indiana wilderness. It symbolizes his early education and the self-reliance he demonstrated in his youth, educating himself with limited resources.
- Significance: Lincoln’s years in Indiana were formative in his development as a thinker and leader. The coin illustrates his commitment to education, which would later play a key role in his leadership and presidential vision.
- Mintage: This design was issued in mid-2009.
3. Professional Life in Illinois (Third Design – Released in 2009)
- Design: The third design shows Lincoln standing before the Illinois State Capitol, representing his years as a lawyer and state legislator in Springfield, Illinois. This period in Lincoln’s life was essential in shaping his political and legal career.
- Significance: Lincoln worked as a lawyer in Springfield before rising to national prominence. His practice helped shape his leadership abilities and his eventual election as president.
- Mintage: This design was issued in the third quarter of 2009.
4. Presidency and the Civil War (Fourth Design – Released in 2009)
- Design: The final design features a Union shield with 13 stars, symbolizing Lincoln’s leadership during the Civil War. The image honors his role as president during the most tumultuous period in U.S. history.
- Significance: The shield with 13 stars represents the original 13 colonies and honors Lincoln’s leadership in preserving the Union. The coin design also serves as a tribute to his efforts to abolish slavery and end the Civil War.
- Mintage: The final design was released in the fourth quarter of 2009.
Coin Specifications and Features
Each of the Lincoln Bicentennial Cents has the same specifications as the standard Lincoln Cent, though the reverse designs differ. Here’s a breakdown of the coin’s features:
- Obverse: The obverse of the 2009 Lincoln Cent features the familiar portrait of Abraham Lincoln, designed by Victor David Brenner. This design has been in use since the coin was first introduced in 1909.
- Reverse: As mentioned earlier, there are four different reverse designs, each representing a distinct phase of Lincoln’s life.
- Diameter: 0.75 inches (19.05 mm)
- Weight: 2.5 grams
- Composition: 97.5% zinc, 2.5% copper
- Mintmarks: The coins were minted in three locations—Philadelphia (no mintmark), Denver (D), and San Francisco (S for proof coins).
Mintage and Availability
The 2009 Lincoln Bicentennial Cent Series was produced in large quantities, and the coins were widely distributed across the United States.
However, certain varieties, such as the proof coins from the San Francisco Mint, are rarer and more valuable. Here’s a breakdown of the mintage for each of the four designs:
- First Design (Log Cabin): Approx. 500 million coins were produced.
- Second Design (Young Lincoln with Book): Approx. 600 million coins were produced.
- Third Design (Lincoln in Illinois): Approx. 500 million coins were produced.
- Fourth Design (Union Shield): Approx. 500 million coins were produced.
Although millions of these coins were made, collectors focus on obtaining coins in higher grades, including MS65 or better for circulation coins and PR69 or better for proof coins.
The availability of high-quality examples of the Bicentennial Cent, especially from the San Francisco Mint, has led to an increase in demand from both collectors and investors.
Value of the 2009 Lincoln Bicentennial Cent
While the 2009 Lincoln Bicentennial Cents were produced in vast quantities, some varieties and higher-grade examples have become valuable over time. The value of a 2009 Lincoln Bicentennial Cent depends on factors such as:
- Mintmark: Coins from the San Francisco Mint (proof) are more valuable than those from Philadelphia or Denver.
- Condition: Coins in higher grades, particularly MS65 or better, are sought after by collectors.
- Errors: Coins with minting errors (such as doubled dies, off-center strikes, or die cracks) can be worth significantly more than those in regular condition.
For example, a 2009-S proof coin in perfect condition (PR70) could fetch upwards of $10 or more, while common circulation versions typically hold little value unless in exceptional condition.
The rarest coins in this series, particularly those with minting errors, could command prices well beyond the standard value.
| Coin | Year | Mintmarks | Design | Significance | Mintage | Value |
|---|---|---|---|---|---|---|
| First Design: Birth and Childhood | 2009 | P (Philadelphia), D (Denver), S (San Francisco – Proof) | Log cabin symbolizing Lincoln’s birth in Kentucky | Celebrates Lincoln’s humble beginnings in a log cabin | ~500 million | Common; higher value in proof/grades |
| Second Design: Formative Years | 2009 | P, D, S | Young Lincoln reading a book in Indiana | Represents Lincoln’s self-education and early years | ~600 million | Higher value in higher grades |
| Third Design: Professional Life | 2009 | P, D, S | Lincoln standing before Illinois Capitol | Honors Lincoln’s career as a lawyer and politician | ~500 million | Common, but proof coins valuable |
| Fourth Design: Presidency & Legacy | 2009 | P, D, S | Union shield with 13 stars | Commemorates Lincoln’s leadership during the Civil War | ~500 million | Proof coins, errors are valuable |
Are the 2009 Lincoln Bicentennial Cents still in circulation?
A1: Yes, the 2009 Lincoln Bicentennial Cents are still in circulation, although they are becoming harder to find as they are slowly replaced by newer coins. Some collectors specifically look for these coins as part of their Lincoln Cent collection.
How can I tell if my 2009 Lincoln Bicentennial Cent is valuable?
A2: To determine if your 2009 Lincoln Bicentennial Cent is valuable, check for the following: High-grade coins (MS65 or better) are generally more valuable.
Proof coins from the San Francisco Mint (marked with an “S”) can be more valuable. Coins with minting errors (such as doubled dies or off-center strikes) can also be worth more.
How many 2009 Lincoln Bicentennial Cents were minted?
A3: Approximately 2.1 billion 2009 Lincoln Bicentennial Cents were minted in total, across all four designs, making the coins relatively common. However, proof coins from the San Francisco Mint and high-grade examples are rarer and more valuable.
Are the 2009 Lincoln Bicentennial Cents worth more than face value?
A4: Most 2009 Lincoln Bicentennial Cents are worth only their face value (one cent). However, proof coins and coins in high grades can be worth more, especially if they are part of a complete set or have minting errors.
Where can I buy or sell 2009 Lincoln Bicentennial Cents?
A5: You can buy or sell 2009 Lincoln Bicentennial Cents through online auction sites, coin shops, or reputable numismatic dealers. It’s advisable to consult a professional for any high-value or rare coins.