Lincoln Bicentennial Cents (2009)

Lincoln Bicentennial Cents

The Lincoln Bicentennial Cents, introduced in 2009, mark the celebration of the 200th anniversary of President Abraham Lincoln's birth. This commemorative series of pennies is notable for its unique design that honors Lincoln’s enduring legacy and his pivotal role in shaping American history. Featuring four distinct reverse designs, each 2009 Lincoln Bicentennial One Cent encapsulates significant moments from Lincoln's life, making them a captivating subject for both collectors and history enthusiasts.

The Lincoln Bicentennial Cents boast four unique reverse designs that celebrate different facets of Abraham Lincoln's life and legacy. The first design features a log cabin, symbolizing Lincoln's humble origins in Hardin County, Kentucky, and representing the foundation of his character—emphasizing hard work and perseverance. It is referred to as Birth and Early Childhood.

The second design, known as the Formative Years, showcases Lincoln as a young man taking a break from rail-splitting in Indiana. He grew into a skilled plowman and woodcutter at his home in southern Indiana. While taking a break, he is seen reading a book, educating himself in his downtime.

Regarded as his Professional Life, the third design depicts a young Abraham Lincoln in front of the State Capitol in Illinois. His father, Thomas, moved the family to Illinois in 1830. There, Abraham was elected to the Illinois General Assembly in 1834, marking his first move into politics.

The last (and fourth) design is known as the Presidency. It features the half finished dome of the United States capitol as it was still under construction during President Lincoln's term. Despite the Civil War, the dome continued being built.

Compared to previous Lincoln cent designs, which focused on a single profile image, the 2009 Lincoln Bicentennial Cent offers a multifaceted view of Lincoln’s life. These reverse designs not only celebrate his historical significance but also invite collectors and enthusiasts to appreciate the values he championed, making them an essential addition to any coin collection.