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- Product ID: 17057
The 1931-S Lincoln Cent is a notable coin within the Lincoln Cent series, representing a unique and important era in American numismatics. Struck during the Great Depression, this coin carries historical significance due to the economic challenges faced by the United States at the time. The Lincoln Cent series, introduced in 1909 to commemorate Abraham Lincoln's 100th birthday, features a design by Victor David Brenner that has become iconic in American coinage. The 1931-S, minted at the San Francisco Mint, is particularly distinguished by its lower mintage and the fine details it exhibits, making it a valuable piece for collectors.
The obverse of the 1931-S Lincoln Cent displays Brenner's famous portrait of Abraham Lincoln. This design portrays Lincoln in profile, facing left, showcasing his distinct facial features, including his beard and prominent cheekbones. The inscription "IN GOD WE TRUST" arches above Lincoln’s head, while "LIBERTY" is placed to his left. The year "1931" is positioned directly below Lincoln’s bust. In Extra Fine condition, the obverse of the 1931-S coin presents Lincoln’s profile with well-defined features. Although there might be some light wear, the essential details, such as Lincoln’s beard, hair, and the folds of his clothing, should remain clear and sharp, reflecting a coin that has been well-preserved.
The reverse of the 1931-S Lincoln Cent features the traditional "wheat reverse" design, which includes two ears of wheat flanking a central shield. The shield, inscribed with "ONE CENT," is surrounded by the inscriptions "UNITED STATES OF AMERICA" and "E PLURIBUS UNUM." This design symbolizes agricultural prosperity and national strength. In Extra Fine condition, the reverse of the 1931-S coin should exhibit clear details of the wheat ears and the central shield. The wheat stalks should be prominent, with only minor wear visible on the highest points of the design. The overall appearance should reflect a well-maintained coin, with the wheat ears and central shield retaining their distinctive details.
The 1931-S Lincoln Cent was minted at the San Francisco Mint, with a production total of approximately 866,000 coins. This low mintage figure makes the 1931-S a rare and sought-after issue within the Lincoln Cent series. Compared to other years, the 1931-S has a significantly smaller mintage, adding to its desirability among collectors. The San Francisco Mint's output for this year was notably lower, contributing to the coin's rarity and value. Collectors and numismatists value the 1931-S Lincoln Cent for its limited production and historical context, making it an important piece in any collection.
In Extra Fine condition, the 1931-S Lincoln Cent is characterized by its well-preserved details and minimal signs of wear. The obverse should display a clearly defined portrait of Lincoln, with light wear evident on the highest points of his features. Lincoln’s hair, beard, and clothing should retain their original sharpness and definition, reflecting a coin that has been carefully handled. On the reverse, the wheat ears and central shield should be distinct, with only minor wear visible on the high points of the design. The coin’s overall condition should demonstrate its careful preservation over time, maintaining its historical and numismatic value.
The 1931-S Lincoln Cent, graded Extra Fine, is highly valued by collectors and numismatists due to its historical importance and well-preserved design. As part of the Lincoln Cent series, this coin captures a significant moment in American history during a period of economic hardship. Collectors appreciate the 1931-S not only for its artistic and historical significance but also for its rarity and role in the broader context of American coinage. The 1931-S Lincoln Cent remains a treasured piece among those who value the rich heritage and legacy of American numismatics.