The 2009 Lincoln Bicentennial Penny stands out as a favorite among collectors due to its unique designs and historical significance. Released to honor the 200th birthday of Abraham Lincoln, these pennies feature four different reverse designs, each representing a stage in Lincoln’s life. Although most 2009 pennies in circulated condition are worth face value, those in excellent condition or with rare mint errors can be highly valuable, fetching hundreds or even thousands of dollars.
Here’s what to know about these remarkable coins and how to assess their worth.
2009 Lincoln Bicentennial Penny Designs and History
In 2009, the U.S. Mint introduced four distinct designs on the penny’s reverse, each representing a chapter in Lincoln’s life. Over six billion of these pennies were produced and released in three-month intervals throughout the year, generating enthusiasm from collectors and the public alike.
Birth and Early Childhood in Kentucky
The first design, released on February 12, 2009, depicts a log cabin, symbolizing Lincoln’s modest beginnings in Kentucky. Designed by Richard Masters and sculpted by Jim Licaretz, this image highlights Lincoln’s formative years in a rural setting.
Formative Years in Indiana
Released on May 14, 2009, the second design shows a young Lincoln reading while taking a break from splitting logs. Created by Charles Vickers, this design represents Lincoln’s dedication to learning and self-improvement during his youth in Indiana.
Professional Life in Illinois
The third design, launched on August 13, 2009, portrays Lincoln standing in front of the Illinois State Capitol, reflecting his time as a lawyer and politician. Designed by Joel Iskowitz and sculpted by Don Everhart, this penny symbolizes Lincoln’s professional development in Illinois.
Presidency in Washington, D.C.
The final design, released on November 12, 2009, features the U.S. Capitol dome under construction, symbolizing a growing nation. Created by Susan Gamble and sculpted by Joseph Menna, this design honors Lincoln’s leadership during a time of national transformation.
Value of the 2009 Lincoln Bicentennial Penny
The value of a 2009 Lincoln Bicentennial Penny depends on its condition, mint mark, and any errors or variations. While most circulated 2009 pennies are worth only one cent, uncirculated coins in pristine condition or with unique errors can be worth significantly more.
- Circulated Condition: Generally worth face value (1 cent).
- Mint State (MS) Grades:
- MS66: Typically sells for a few dollars.
- MS67 and MS67+: Can reach values in the hundreds or thousands, especially if free of imperfections.
- Special Mint Errors: Some rare coins with mint errors or in exceptional condition have fetched up to $725.
Factors That Influence the Value of 2009 Pennies
Several factors contribute to the value of the 2009 Lincoln Bicentennial Cents. Understanding these factors can help you determine if your penny might be worth more than face value.
Condition and Grade
High-grade 2009 pennies in Mint State (MS) are often the most valuable. Coins graded MS66 and above are more likely to fetch higher prices, with MS67 or better demanding a premium among collectors. Coins graded by the Professional Coin Grading Service (PCGS) or Numismatic Guaranty Corporation (NGC) generally have higher resale values.
Mint Mark and Finish
The mint mark can also affect a 2009 penny’s rarity and value:
- Philadelphia Mint (no mint mark), Denver Mint (“D” mint mark), and San Francisco Mint (“S” mint mark) coins were all produced in 2009.
- Special satin-finish 2009 pennies, included in certain collector sets, tend to be rarer and more valuable.
Mint Errors and Varieties
Certain errors or varieties make a coin more collectible, such as doubled dies or off-center strikes. Examining your 2009 penny closely with a magnifying glass or having it professionally appraised can help identify any rare errors.
How to Estimate the Value of Your 2009 Lincoln Bicentennial Penny
If you think your 2009 penny could be valuable, consider the following steps to estimate its worth:
- Inspect the Coin’s Condition: Coins in excellent, uncirculated condition are generally more valuable.
- Identify Mint Marks and Finishes: Check if the coin has a mint mark (D, S) or a special finish that could add to its rarity.
- Examine for Errors: Look for unique characteristics or mint errors, which can increase a coin’s value. Professional graders can verify these errors if needed.
- Research Recent Sales: Research recent auction results to see if similar coins have sold, considering mint marks, condition, and any errors.
Buying and Selling 2009 Lincoln Bicentennial Pennies
For coins in average condition, the 2009 penny is generally only worth face value, making it unlikely to yield high resale value. However, high-grade examples and those with mint errors are typically bought and sold through auctions, particularly at prominent auction houses like Heritage Auctions.
Tips for Buyers
If you’re interested in purchasing a high-grade 2009 penny, look for coins graded by reputable services like PCGS or NGC, which provide verified grades that can impact resale value.
Tips for Sellers
If you have a potentially valuable 2009 penny, consider getting it graded by a professional service to verify its condition and grade. This step can make it easier to sell your coin at a premium, especially at auctions or through a reputable coin dealer.
The 2009 Lincoln Bicentennial Penny is a cherished collector’s item, not only for its unique designs but also for the historical significance it represents. While most 2009 pennies are only worth face value, certain factors—such as mint errors, condition, and specific mint marks—can make some of these coins significantly more valuable. Whether you’re a collector or a casual hobbyist, understanding what to look for can help you uncover the hidden value in this special commemorative penny.
FAQs
Q: Are all 2009 pennies worth more than face value?
A: No, most circulated 2009 pennies are worth face value. Only uncirculated coins in excellent condition or with rare errors hold significant value.
Q: How can I tell if my 2009 penny has a valuable mint error?
A: Inspect your penny for any unusual features or imperfections. Professional graders can help verify rare mint errors, such as doubled dies or off-center strikes.
Q: What are the four designs on the 2009 penny?
A: The four designs represent Lincoln’s life stages: his birthplace in Kentucky, formative years in Indiana, professional life in Illinois, and presidency in Washington, D.C.
Q: Should I get my 2009 penny graded?
A: If your penny appears uncirculated and free of noticeable marks, it may be worth grading by a professional service to confirm its value.
Q: Where can I sell my 2009 Lincoln Bicentennial Penny?
A: High-quality or rare 2009 pennies can be sold at auctions or through coin dealers. Ordinary pennies in circulated condition generally aren’t worth more than face value.