This coin got the name Wheat penny because of two wheat stalks depicted on the reverse.ĭesigner Victor Brenner made a mistake by adding too big initials, making the public angry. Until 1909, it was considered improper to have real people on the coin, but the public was happy to celebrate Lincoln. It was the first coin to have a person on the obverse, as all before contained: In honor of President Abraham Lincoln’s 100th birthday in 1909, Victor Brenner designed a coin with the obverse depicting a portrait of this famous American President. The mint mark and condition, including visible traces of wear and damage, significantly influence the 1993 penny value. However, specimens minted in recent years also have their place in collections. It is the first piece with the American President’s image, while the Lincoln Memorial penny is the first with a human figure on both sides.Ĭollectors find these coins fun and collectible, although they mainly focus on pieces from an earlier period. Despite being the US Mint’s lowest denomination, the Lincoln cent is a coin of exceptional historical significance.

1898 indian head penny no mint mark