Different Kinds of Pennies – A Closer Look
Not all pennies are created equal. Unbeknownst to many, pennies have a rich history marked by changes in design, composition, and value. This colourful timeline provides a more profound understanding of these seemingly ordinary coins.
The Birth of the Penny: 1793
The United States Mint first produced pennies in 1793. Designated as the ‘Chain Cent’, these coins featured a chain of 15 links representing unity among the 15 states. They were designed by Henry Voigt and mainly made of copper. However, this design faced criticism for its perceived association with slavery, leading to the chain motif’s discontinuation after just one year of production.
The Classic Liberty Head: 1793-1857
Following the discontinuation of Chain Cent, the Liberty Head design was adopted from 1793-1857. This design featured Miss Liberty’s profile and symbolized hope and freedom, a critical theme for a newly independent nation. The Liberty Head penny has since become a coveted item among coin collectors for its historical significance and rarity.
The Indian Head Penny: 1859-1909
In 1859, the Mint introduced the Indian Head penny, designed by Chief Engraver James B. Longacre. Contrary to public opinion, the female figure depicted on this penny was not a Native American but a Caucasian woman wearing a Native American headdress. The switch to the Indian Head motif marked the transition from coins emphasizing classic themes to coins celebrating uniquely American images.
The Birth of the Lincoln Penny: 1909-Present
We’re all familiar with the Lincoln penny. This design first appeared in 1909 to commemorate the 100th anniversary of President Abraham Lincoln’s birth. Crafted by Victor David Brenner, it was the first American coin featuring a historical figure. While the obverse side has seen minor changes over the years, Lincoln’s profile has remained a constant.
Composition Changes: From 95% Copper to Zinc
Up until the mid-20th century, pennies were primarily composed of copper. However, during World War II, the urgent demand for copper led to a temporary switch to steel. The coins minted in 1943 are easily identifiable due to their distinctive silvery appearance. But this change was short-lived, as the following year, the composition returned to mostly copper, but with a slight mix of zinc and tin.
It was only in 1982 that the Mint officially switched to a primarily zinc composition, with a thin copper plating. These changes were driven by economic factors as the cost of copper soared in the market. The copper-coated zinc pennies are what we use today, but the previous copper pennies are still legal tender and are often collected for their value and historical interest.
Special Edition Pennies: Commemorating Significant Events
Throughout its history, the US Mint has released special edition pennies to commemorate significant events. These include the 2009 pennies marking the 200th anniversary of Lincoln’s birth and four distinct reverse designs symbolizing different stages of his life. The 2017-P D Lincoln cent, commemorating the 225th Anniversary of the US Mint, was another mark in its lineage.
As trivial as they may seem, pennies hold more weight than just their monetary value. They capture pieces of American history. Acquiring knowledge about the different types of pennies effectively transforms coin collection from a simple hobby into a fascinating exploration of America’s past.