2010 Shield Cent Collection

The shield seen on this 2010 coin is emblematic of a new start for the republic following the Civil War. American cent coins honored Abraham Lincoln with 4 unique designs in 2009 and now the 2010 “Shield Cent” has taken its seat as the American standard for cent coins for years to come. The obverse displays the familiar bust of Lincoln seen for more than 100 years. This 2-coin cent collection features both a Denver and Philadelphia minted uncirculated cent coin in a dramatic and colorful 5″x5″ tri-fold. Coins are affixed with a clear LockTite enclosure to secure and protect your coins while being able to closely inspect them.

2010 Shield Cent Collection

The 2010 Shield Cent Collection marks a defining moment in modern U.S. coinage—a moment when America’s smallest denomination received a bold new identity rooted in national unity, historical symbolism, and the enduring legacy of Abraham Lincoln. This beautifully presented 2‑coin set features both the Philadelphia‑minted and Denver‑minted uncirculated 2010 Shield Cents, showcased in a dramatic, full‑color 5″ x 5″ tri‑fold display. Designed for collectors, history enthusiasts, and anyone who appreciates the evolution of American currency, this set captures the beginning of a new era for the United States penny.

A New Chapter in U.S. Cent Design

The introduction of the Union Shield reverse design in 2010 represented the first major redesign of the Lincoln cent in over half a century. For decades, the Lincoln Memorial reverse (1959–2008) served as a familiar symbol in pockets and piggy banks across the nation. But with the approach of Lincoln’s bicentennial in 2009, the U.S. Mint embarked on a historic redesign initiative that honored the life and legacy of America’s 16th president.

In 2009, four special reverse designs were issued to commemorate Lincoln’s 200th birthday, each depicting a different chapter of his life—from his humble Kentucky birthplace to his presidency in Washington, D.C. These coins were minted for one year only, making them instant favorites among collectors.

Then, in 2010, the Mint unveiled the permanent Shield Cent, a design intended to symbolize the strength and unity of the nation—particularly in the years following the Civil War. The shield motif, long used in American heraldry, represents the nation’s resolve to remain united despite hardship and division. Its 13 vertical stripes represent the original colonies, bound together under a single horizontal banner inscribed with E PLURIBUS UNUM, meaning “Out of many, one.”

This powerful imagery connects the modern cent to the nation’s earliest ideals and reinforces the penny’s role as a small but meaningful piece of American heritage.

The Enduring Legacy of Abraham Lincoln

While the reverse design changed, the obverse of the 2010 cent continues to feature the iconic bust of Abraham Lincoln, first introduced in 1909 to mark the centennial of his birth. Sculpted by Victor David Brenner, this portrait became the first depiction of a real historical figure on a circulating U.S. coin. More than a century later, Lincoln’s image remains one of the most recognizable in American numismatics.

The 2010 Shield Cent thus bridges past and present—pairing Brenner’s timeless portrait with a modern reverse that reflects the nation Lincoln fought to preserve.

Uncirculated Coins from Both U.S. Mints

This exclusive 2‑coin collection includes:

• One 2010 Philadelphia Mint Shield Cent (no mintmark)
• One 2010 Denver Mint Shield Cent (D mintmark)

Both coins are presented in uncirculated condition, preserving their original mint luster and sharp detail. Collectors value uncirculated cents for their crisp strike, clean surfaces, and long‑term durability—qualities that make this set an ideal addition to any U.S. coin collection.

Premium 5″ x 5″ Tri‑Fold Display

Your coins are housed in a vibrant, full‑color tri‑fold display, designed to highlight the artistry and historical significance of the Shield Cent. The presentation includes:

• Rich historical background about the 2010 design change
• High‑resolution imagery and informative text
• A compact, durable format ideal for display or gifting

Each coin is secured using a clear Lock Tite enclosure, ensuring long‑term protection while allowing you to admire the fine details of the design up close. This method keeps the coins firmly in place without adhesives or damage, preserving their uncirculated quality.

A Must‑Have for Collectors and History Enthusiasts

The 2010 Shield Cent represents more than a simple design update—it marks the beginning of a new standard for America’s most widely circulated coin. Whether you’re building a complete Lincoln cent collection, commemorating the 2009–2010 design transition, or simply appreciating the artistry of modern U.S. coinage, this set offers exceptional value and historical depth.

Collectors appreciate the Shield Cent for its symbolism, its connection to Lincoln’s legacy, and its role in the ongoing story of American currency. This 2‑coin uncirculated set is a perfect way to preserve that story for future generations.