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The 1913 Lincoln Cent, graded Extra Fine, is an emblematic piece of early 20th-century American numismatic history. The Lincoln Cent series, introduced in 1909, was the first to feature a real historical figure on a circulating coin, marking a significant departure from previous designs that featured allegorical or symbolic figures. The 1913 issue continues the tradition established by Victor David Brenner's design, which features a portrait of Abraham Lincoln, the 16th President of the United States. This coin is a notable example of the series, reflecting both its historical importance and its enduring appeal among collectors.
Victor David Brenner’s design for the Lincoln Cent was groundbreaking when it was first introduced. On the obverse of the 1913 Lincoln Cent, Brenner’s detailed portrait of Lincoln is prominently displayed. The image captures Lincoln in a dignified profile, with his beard and facial features rendered with remarkable clarity. The inscription “IN GOD WE TRUST” arches above Lincoln’s portrait, emphasizing the coin’s religious motto. To the left of Lincoln’s shoulder is the word “LIBERTY,” and directly below the portrait is the date “1913,” which clearly identifies the year of minting. Brenner’s design was praised for its accuracy and respectful portrayal of one of the most revered figures in American history.
The reverse of the 1913 Lincoln Cent features a design that complements the obverse while emphasizing American agricultural themes. The reverse displays two ears of wheat, which frame a central shield with the inscription “ONE CENT” prominently placed in the center. The inscriptions “UNITED STATES OF AMERICA” and “E PLURIBUS UNUM” are positioned around the central elements, reinforcing the coin’s national identity and motto. The detailed depiction of the wheat ears is intended to symbolize prosperity and the agricultural foundation of the United States, reflecting the economic values of the time.
The 1913 Lincoln Cent was minted at the Philadelphia Mint, which was the primary facility responsible for producing the vast majority of U.S. coinage during this period. The total mintage for the 1913 Lincoln Cent was 39,230,000 coins. This relatively high mintage indicates that the coin was widely circulated and used in everyday transactions. The 1913 issue was part of a continuous production effort to supply the growing economy with the necessary currency, and its large mintage reflects the widespread acceptance and use of the Lincoln Cent in daily life.
Coins graded as Extra Fine are known for their high level of preservation. On an Extra Fine 1913 Lincoln Cent, the portrait of Abraham Lincoln remains well-defined, with most of the original mint luster still visible. The details in the design, including the wheat ears on the reverse and the inscriptions, are generally clear and well-preserved. There may be some light wear on the high points of the design, but the coin retains much of its original detail and charm. The surfaces of an Extra Fine coin are typically clean, with only minimal contact marks or abrasions. This level of preservation enhances the coin’s appeal to collectors and numismatists who value both historical significance and condition.
The 1913 Lincoln Cent in Extra Fine condition represents a key piece in the Lincoln Cent series. Its historical context, combined with Brenner’s iconic design and the coin’s well-preserved state, makes it a valuable addition to any collection of early 20th-century American coins. Collectors appreciate the 1913 Lincoln Cent not only for its place in the series but also for its representation of American numismatic history and the evolution of coin design. This coin remains a popular choice among those interested in the Lincoln Cent series and American currency from this era.