US Cent Collection

This copper penny was minted in the US from 1859 to 1909 and features a portrait of an
Indian princess. It was the first cent to be granted legal status by the Coinage Act of 1864.

Lincoln Wheat Cent
This copper coin was first issued in 1909 to commemorate the 100th anniversary of
Abraham Lincoln’s birth. It was the first US coin to feature a historic rather than symbolic
figure. The wheat motif on the reverse side honors the predominantly agricultural United
States in the early part of the 20th century. Wheat Cents have become greatly desired by
collectors, both casual and professional. This is especially true with the 1909 issue
bearing the initials of the designer, Victor D. Brenner. Today, these are some of the rarest
and most sought after coins on the market.

“War Penny” (1943 Steel Lincoln Wheat Penny)
This special issue Lincoln Wheat Cent was only minted in 1943. It was made of zinc-
coated steel to conserve copper for the fabrication of bullets and cartridges used by US
troops in World War ll. Once commonly circulated, this coin has become increasingly
difficult to find.

Lincoln Memorial Cent
This copper penny was first minted in 1959 to honor Abraham Lincoln’s 150th birthday
and has been minted from 1983 to the present in copper-coated zinc. If you look closely
on the reverse side, the statue of Lincoln can be seen inside the Lincoln Memorial,
making this coin the first to feature the same person on both sides.

US Cent Collection – A Historic Journey Through America’s Most Iconic Pennies

Discover more than a century of American history with this beautifully curated US Cent Collection, featuring four of the most beloved and historically significant pennies ever minted by the United States Mint. From the elegant Indian Head Cent of the 19th century to the modern Lincoln Memorial Cent, this collection offers a remarkable look at how America’s smallest denomination became one of its most enduring symbols. Whether you are a seasoned numismatist or a new collector, this set provides an extraordinary opportunity to own genuine pieces of Americana that have circulated through generations.

Indian Head Cent (1859–1909)

The Indian Head Penny is one of the most iconic coins in U.S. history. Struck from 1859 to 1909, this copper cent features the classic portrait of Lady Liberty wearing a Native American headdress—often referred to as an “Indian princess.” Designed by James B. Longacre, this coin reflected the nation’s fascination with westward expansion and the imagery of the American frontier. In 1864, the Indian Head Cent became the first U.S. one‑cent coin granted official legal‑tender status under the Coinage Act of 1864, marking a major milestone in American monetary history. Today, Indian Head Cents are prized for their beauty, craftsmanship, and connection to a transformative era in the United States.

Lincoln Wheat Cent (1909–1958)

Introduced in 1909 to commemorate the 100th anniversary of Abraham Lincoln’s birth, the Lincoln Wheat Cent made history as the first U.S. coin to feature a real historical figure rather than an allegorical symbol. Designed by Victor D. Brenner, the obverse portrait of Lincoln remains one of the most recognizable images in American coinage. The reverse features two wheat stalks, symbolizing the agricultural strength of the early 20th‑century United States. Wheat Cents quickly became favorites among collectors, especially the 1909 issues bearing Brenner’s initials “V.D.B.,” which are among the most sought‑after pennies ever minted. With their rich symbolism and long circulation history, Wheat Cents remain a cornerstone of any serious U.S. coin collection.

1943 Steel “War Penny”

During World War II, copper was urgently needed for ammunition and military equipment. To conserve this critical metal, the U.S. Mint produced the 1943 Steel Lincoln Wheat Penny, the only regular‑issue U.S. cent ever struck in zinc‑coated steel. This unique wartime coin circulated widely during the 1940s but became increasingly scarce as many were later removed from circulation due to rusting or accidental destruction. Today, the 1943 Steel Penny stands as a powerful reminder of America’s wartime sacrifices and industrial ingenuity. Its distinctive silver‑gray appearance makes it one of the most visually striking and historically meaningful coins in U.S. history.

Lincoln Memorial Cent (1959–2008)

Issued beginning in 1959 to honor the 150th anniversary of Abraham Lincoln’s birth, the Lincoln Memorial Cent introduced a new reverse design featuring the Lincoln Memorial in Washington, D.C. If you look closely, you can see the tiny statue of Lincoln inside the memorial—making this the first U.S. coin to depict the same individual on both sides. Early issues were struck in copper, while later versions (1983 onward) were minted in copper‑coated zinc. The Lincoln Memorial Cent remained in production for nearly 50 years, becoming one of the most familiar and widely circulated coins of the modern era.

A Legacy of Over 200 Years of American History

Since the late 18th century, the U.S. penny has evolved in design, composition, and symbolism, yet it remains the most widely recognized American coin. Each cent in this collection represents a different chapter in the nation’s story—from westward expansion and industrial growth to wartime innovation and modern commemoration. These coins are more than currency; they are tangible artifacts that have passed through the hands of everyday Americans for generations.

Whether you are expanding your collection or searching for a meaningful gift, this US Cent Collection offers exceptional historical value and timeless appeal. Add these iconic pennies to your collection today—because a penny saved is, indeed, a penny earned.