The 2009 Lincoln Formative Years Cent is a key part of the United States Mint’s four-coin series issued to honor the 200th anniversary of President Abraham Lincoln’s birth.
This second coin in the series highlights Lincoln’s early years as a young man, emphasizing his education and hard work as a rail splitter. If you’re a collector, here’s everything you need to know about this special coin, its significance, and its value.
The Significance of the 2009 Lincoln Formative Years Cent
The 2009 Lincoln Formative Years Cent commemorates Lincoln’s time in Indiana. After moving with his family from Kentucky, young Abraham Lincoln worked tirelessly alongside his father, Thomas Lincoln, to clear land and build a homestead. Despite limited opportunities for formal education, Lincoln developed a passion for learning, a characteristic that would serve him well throughout his life.
This coin captures that critical period in Lincoln’s life, reflecting both his labor and love for reading.
The Design of the 2009 Lincoln Formative Years Cent
- Obverse: The obverse of this coin features the traditional portrait of Abraham Lincoln, designed by Victor David Brenner, with the year “2009” beside Lincoln. This design has been part of the Lincoln cent since its introduction in 1909, with minor updates, such as the placement of Brenner’s initials “V.D.B.,” which were reintroduced in 1918 after initially being removed in 1909.
- Reverse: The reverse design, crafted by Charles L. Vickers, shows a youthful Abraham Lincoln sitting on a log, reading. This image symbolizes Lincoln’s early work as a rail splitter, using a mallet and wedge to split logs for railroad tracks. The reverse also features the coin’s denomination, “ONE CENT,” and the phrase “UNITED STATES OF AMERICA,” along with “E PLURIBUS UNUM” around the bottom edge of the coin.
Release and Distribution of the 2009 Lincoln Formative Years Cent
The coin was officially released on May 14, 2009, during a ceremony at the Lincoln Amphitheater in Lincoln City, Indiana. Despite poor weather conditions, thousands of coin enthusiasts gathered to mark the release of this commemorative cent.
The U.S. Mint distributed millions of these coins, and collectors quickly snapped them up for resale, with coin dealers purchasing rolls at a premium. The enthusiasm for the coin was high, and it quickly became a sought-after collectible.
Collecting the 2009 Lincoln Formative Years Cent
The 2009 Lincoln Formative Years Cent is highly collectible, and its value depends largely on its condition and rarity.
- Circulated Coins: The majority of the coins from this release were saved in circulated condition. These are generally worth between $0.10 and $1, depending on wear and other factors.
- Uncirculated Coins: Uncirculated coins in mint condition can be more valuable. The coins that are graded MS66RD or higher are particularly sought after by collectors. These coins can be worth anywhere from $5 to $20, depending on the specific grade.
- Doubled Die Varieties: Some collectors have discovered doubled die varieties of the 2009 Lincoln Formative Years Cent. These errors, particularly those showing clear doubling of Lincoln’s fingers, are highly prized. Coins with these errors can fetch upwards of $50, depending on the extent of the doubling and the coin’s condition.
- Commemorative Sets: The U.S. Mint also issued commemorative sets that included the 2009 Lincoln Formative Years Cent along with other designs from the Bicentennial series. These sets, which typically sell for around $30, are another popular way to collect this coin.
How to Spot Valuable 2009 Lincoln Formative Years Cents
To determine if your 2009 Lincoln Formative Years Cent is valuable, look for coins in uncirculated condition.
These should be free from any marks, scratches, or discoloration. Additionally, be on the lookout for doubled die varieties, which can significantly increase the coin’s value.
Conclusion
The 2009 Lincoln Formative Years Cent is a special coin that commemorates a pivotal moment in the life of one of the greatest American presidents. Whether you’re an avid collector or a newcomer to the hobby, this coin offers a unique opportunity to own a piece of history.
With its historical significance, multiple varieties, and continued collector interest, the 2009 Lincoln Formative Years Cent is a valuable addition to any collection.
FAQs
1. What is the 2009 Lincoln Formative Years Cent?
The 2009 Lincoln Formative Years Cent is part of a four-coin series celebrating Abraham Lincoln’s life, marking the 200th anniversary of his birth. This coin honors his years spent working as a rail splitter and pursuing education.
2. How many 2009 Lincoln Formative Years Cents were minted?
Over 376 million circulation-strike coins were minted, with additional coins issued for collectors in specially designed sets.
3. How much is a 2009 Lincoln Formative Years Cent worth?
The value of the 2009 Lincoln Formative Years Cent depends on its condition. Circulated coins are typically worth $0.10 to $1, while uncirculated coins can fetch $5 to $20. Coins with doubled die errors may be worth significantly more.
4. What are doubled die varieties, and why are they valuable?
Doubled die varieties are errors that occur when the design on the coin is struck more than once, leading to noticeable doubling of the image. These coins are valuable because of their rarity and the distinctive appearance of the error.
5. Where can I buy or sell the 2009 Lincoln Formative Years Cent?
You can find and sell the 2009 Lincoln Formative Years Cent on platforms like eBay, at coin shops, or through online coin dealers. Always verify the coin’s grade before purchasing or selling to ensure its value.
