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The 1918-S Lincoln Cent, graded Extra Fine, represents a significant issue in the Lincoln Cent series, reflecting both its design continuity and the historical context of its time. The Lincoln Cent, introduced in 1909, was a groundbreaking addition to U.S. coinage, featuring Abraham Lincoln, the 16th President of the United States, for the first time on a circulating coin. The 1918-S, minted during the aftermath of World War I, offers a unique perspective on the series' development and the broader historical landscape of the early 20th century.
The obverse of the 1918-S Lincoln Cent displays Victor David Brenner’s iconic portrait of Abraham Lincoln. Brenner’s design is renowned for its dignified representation of Lincoln, depicted in profile with a solemn and respectful expression. The inscription “IN GOD WE TRUST” is prominently featured above Lincoln’s head, reflecting the national motto. To the left of Lincoln’s shoulder is the word “LIBERTY,” while the date “1918” is placed directly below his portrait. Brenner’s attention to detail captures the essence of Lincoln’s character, and the design remains a hallmark of the Lincoln Cent series.
The reverse of the 1918-S Lincoln Cent continues the agricultural theme introduced with the series. The design features two ears of wheat, symbolizing prosperity and the importance of agriculture to the American economy. These wheat ears frame a central shield that bears the denomination “ONE CENT.” Surrounding the central design are the inscriptions “UNITED STATES OF AMERICA” and “E PLURIBUS UNUM.” This reverse design underscores the coin’s role as a fundamental unit of U.S. currency and highlights the nation’s agricultural heritage, which was central to the American identity during this period.
The 1918-S Lincoln Cent was minted at the San Francisco Mint, one of the key facilities responsible for producing U.S. coinage. The total mintage for the 1918-S issue was 22,380,000 coins. This mintage figure reflects the continued demand for small-denomination coins in the post-war period and the San Francisco Mint’s role in meeting this demand. While the mintage was relatively high, the 1918-S Lincoln Cent is valued by collectors for its distinct features and historical significance within the Lincoln Cent series.
Coins graded as Extra Fine are characterized by their well-preserved details and minimal wear. On an Extra Fine 1918-S Lincoln Cent, collectors can expect to find a coin with most of its design features still visible and sharp. The portrait of Abraham Lincoln should retain clear details, though there may be light wear on the high points of Lincoln’s hair and beard. The wheat ears on the reverse should also exhibit well-defined details, with only slight wear evident. The surfaces of an Extra Fine coin typically show minimal contact marks and abrasions, contributing to its overall attractiveness and value.
The 1918-S Lincoln Cent in Extra Fine condition is particularly sought after by collectors due to its historical context, enduring design, and overall state of preservation. The coin represents a key moment in the Lincoln Cent series, capturing both the legacy of Abraham Lincoln and the ongoing development of U.S. coinage. The well-preserved state of the 1918-S enhances its numismatic appeal, making it a desirable addition to any collection. Collectors appreciate the 1918-S Lincoln Cent not only for its design and historical importance but also for its role in continuing the legacy of the Lincoln Cent series and its representation of early 20th-century American currency.