The Lincoln Shield Cent, introduced in 2010, represents a new chapter in the Lincoln penny series. Featuring Abraham Lincoln’s portrait on the front, this coin replaced the Lincoln Memorial design that was in circulation from 1959.
The Union shield on the reverse symbolizes Lincoln’s efforts to maintain national unity during the Civil War, making it a powerful tribute to his legacy. Let’s explore the history, design, value, and collectible varieties of this unique coin, as well as its potential future.
| Section | Topics Covered |
|---|---|
| Origins and Historical Context | Why the Shield Cent was created and its background |
| Design Features | Obverse and reverse design details |
| Minting and Production | Key minting locations, mint marks, and production details |
| Value and Composition | What the coin is made of and its worth to collectors |
| Special Editions and Varieties | Notable editions and rare finds for collectors |
| Future of the Lincoln Shield Cent | Debates about the penny’s future and redesign possibilities |
| FAQs | Common questions about the Lincoln Shield Cent |
Origins and Historical Context
The Lincoln Shield Cent was created as part of the Presidential $1 Coin Act of 2005, which encouraged the U.S. Mint to honor past presidents and historic events. By 2010, the Mint introduced this coin, featuring a new Union shield on the reverse.
The shield design reflects Lincoln’s role in preserving the United States during the Civil War, symbolizing both strength and unity.
During the design selection, there were several other options, including a wheat sheaf design. However, this design was ultimately dismissed for its resemblance to Germany’s 1924 2-pfennig coin.
Instead, the Union shield was chosen, with 13 vertical stripes representing the original colonies and a horizontal bar across them, signifying national unity. The motto “E Pluribus Unum,” meaning “Out of many, one,” reinforces this theme, creating a lasting tribute to Lincoln’s commitment to the Union.
Design Features of the Lincoln Shield Cent
Obverse Design
The front, or obverse, of the Lincoln Shield Cent keeps the classic image of Abraham Lincoln, designed by sculptor Victor David Brenner in 1909. This portrait was groundbreaking as the first U.S. coin to feature a real person.
Above Lincoln’s head is the phrase “In God We Trust,” with “Liberty” on the left and the year with mintmark on the right. Notably, in 2017, the Philadelphia Mint added a “P” mintmark to celebrate its 225th anniversary—making it the only year a Philadelphia-minted penny included a mintmark.
Reverse Design
On the back, or reverse, the Union shield stands as a symbol of national unity. The shield’s 13 vertical stripes represent the original colonies, while the single horizontal bar symbolizes the nation’s strength as a unified country.
“E Pluribus Unum” is prominently inscribed on this side, reminding viewers of America’s motto: “Out of many, one.” This reverse design beautifully ties Lincoln’s legacy to the coin’s purpose, emphasizing both history and unity.
Minting and Production of the Lincoln Shield Cent
Since 2010, the Lincoln Shield Cent has been produced at three main U.S. Mint facilities:
- Philadelphia (P) – Produces circulation-quality coins, except for the unique 2017-P coin.
- Denver (D) – Also produces circulation-quality and uncirculated coins.
- San Francisco (S) – Specializes in proof coins, which are highly valued by collectors for their sharp, mirror-like surfaces.
Philadelphia and Denver mint regular coins for everyday use, while San Francisco mints proof coins, which are typically sold in collector sets due to their high quality and intricate details.
Value and Composition of the Lincoln Shield Cent
The Lincoln Shield Cent is primarily made of zinc (97.5%) with a thin copper coating (2.5%), which gives it its distinctive copper color.
Each coin is 19 mm in diameter and weighs approximately 2.5 grams. Though it’s worth only a penny in circulation, its value can increase for collectors, especially in uncirculated or proof conditions. Here are some examples of higher values:
- 2010-S Proof Lincoln Cent: Can be worth around $3 in pristine condition.
- 2019-W Reverse Proof: A rarer edition, which could be valued up to $10.
Notable Special Editions and Varieties
Over the years, some special editions and varieties of the Lincoln Shield Cent have become highly desirable among collectors:
- 2017-P Lincoln Cent: This is the first cent to feature a “P” mintmark, released to celebrate the Philadelphia Mint’s 225th anniversary. This coin was a surprise release, adding to its collectibility.
- 2019-W Lincoln Shield Cent: The West Point Mint issued Uncirculated, Proof, and Reverse Proof Shield Cents for special Mint sets, which are now in high demand.
Collectors also seek out error coins, which can include coins with die cracks, off-center strikes, and duplicate dies. These errors are rare and can fetch higher prices due to their uniqueness.
The Future of the Lincoln Shield Cent: An Ongoing Debate
The Lincoln Shield Cent, despite its iconic status, is part of an ongoing debate regarding the future of the penny. The cost to produce each penny exceeds its face value, with the U.S. Mint estimating production at about 1.82 cents per penny.
Many argue it’s time to retire the penny to save resources, but no official steps have been taken to remove it from circulation.
As the United States prepares for its 250th anniversary in 2026, a new design for the Lincoln Cent is anticipated as part of the U.S. Semi quincentennial celebration. While it remains uncertain whether the Shield design will return, collectors are excited for potential updates to the beloved Lincoln cent.
FAQs
1. Why was the Lincoln Shield Cent introduced?
The Shield Cent was introduced in 2010 to replace the Lincoln Memorial design and to commemorate Lincoln’s efforts to preserve the Union, as represented by the Union shield.
2. What does the Union shield symbolize on the Lincoln Cent?
The shield represents national unity, with 13 stripes for the original colonies and a horizontal bar for strength.
3. Why is the 2017-P Lincoln Cent special?
It was the first penny from Philadelphia to feature a “P” mintmark, marking the Philadelphia Mint’s 225th anniversary.
4. What materials make up the Lincoln Shield Cent?
It is primarily zinc (97.5%) with a thin copper coating (2.5%).
5. Where is the Lincoln Shield Cent minted?
The coin is minted at Philadelphia (P), Denver (D), and San Francisco (S).