1959 First Year Lincoln Memorial Copper Cent

Updated August 20, 2026

1959 First Year Lincoln Memorial Copper Cent 1959 First Year Lincoln Memorial Copper Cent This 1959 Lincoln Memorial Cent represents a significant milestone in American numismatics as the first year the reverse design transitioned from the wheat ears to the iconic Lincoln Memorial building. Struck in a 95% copper alloy, this coin showcases the profile of Abraham Lincoln on the obverse and the new Frank Gasparro design on the reverse to commemorate the 150th anniversary of Lincoln's birth. This specific uncirculated copper cent displays a bright, lustrous finish and is housed in a protective cardboard flip, clearly marked as the historic first year of the design series. As the inaugural issue of the Memorial reverse, this copper coin is a foundational piece for collectors building a complete Lincoln penny set. 1959 Lincoln Memorial Copper Cent First Year of Issue Condition: The coin appears to be in circulated condition with visible luster remaining, though it features a distinct dark spot or carbon spot on the obverse near Lincoln's cheek. The details on the Lincoln Memorial reverse and the portrait on the obverse remain well-defined. This item is composed of copper (95% copper, 5% tin and zinc). It was minted at the Philadelphia Mint as it lacks a mint mark. The 1959 date marks the historical transition from the Wheat Cent design to the Lincoln Memorial design, which was introduced to commemorate the 150th anniversary of Abraham Lincoln's birth. This is a business strike type coin and is not professionally graded. 1959 penny, Lincoln Memorial cent, US coinage, numismatics, copper coin, Abraham Lincoln, coin collecting, vintage money, first year issue, one cent, coin flip, obverse, reverse, United States currency 1959 penny, Lincoln Memorial cent, first year memorial penny, rare pennies, coin collecting, numismatics, US one cent, copper coins, vintage currency, coin hobby IMPORTANT BIDDER NOTICE Bidder is solely responsible for determining value, condition, completeness, authenticity, fitment, grade, and usefulness before bidding. THIS ITEM IS SOLD STRICTLY AS-IS, WHERE-IS, WITH NO WARRANTIES OR GUARANTEES OF ANY KIND, EXPRESSED OR IMPLIED. ALL SALES ARE FINAL. NO REFUNDS. NO RETURNS. NO CANCELLATIONS. NO BID RETRACTIONS. By placing a bid, the bidder acknowledges that they have reviewed the title, description, photographs, and any auction notices, and have had the opportunity to ask questions before bidding. Bidder agrees that: The item is being purchased strictly as shown in the photographs and described in the listing The auction house does not grade, test, appraise, or authenticate items unless specifically stated By registering and placing bids, the bidder expressly authorizes Iowa Surplus & Estate Auctions to charge the payment method on file for any lots won, including buyer’s premium, applicable taxes, shipping, handling, and processing fees in accordance with the posted auction terms.“Charges may appear on your cr

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