The reverse of the coin, however, is what gives it its name. The Lincoln Memorial design, created by Frank Gasparro, was introduced in 1959 to commemorate the 150th anniversary of Lincoln’s birth. This new reverse replaced the “wheat ears” design that had been in use for the previous 50 years. This particular coin, from the year 1962, falls squarely within this era of the Lincoln Memorial Cent.
Condition and Characteristics
This specific coin shows the signs of a long and interesting life in circulation. The surface exhibits a warm, brown patina, which is common for copper cents that have been in circulation for decades. While the coin has some wear, the key features are still clearly visible. The words “LIBERTY” and “IN GOD WE TRUST” are legible, as is the date “1962” and the “D” mint mark. The detail on Lincoln’s portrait is still present, though it has softened with age.
The Lincoln Memorial itself on the reverse side would also show some wear, particularly on the fine details of the building and the small statue of Lincoln seated inside, which is a key area for determining the coin’s grade. The coin’s color would be officially classified as Brown (BN), as opposed to Red (RD) or Red-Brown (RB), indicating the coin’s natural aging process.
A Gateway to Coin Collecting
While the 1962-D Lincoln Memorial Cent is not considered a rare or valuable key date, its significance lies in its accessibility and historical context. With a mintage of over 1.7 billion, these coins are a great starting point for new collectors. They are an affordable and tangible connection to a specific time in American history. For a more advanced collector, the hunt for a pristine, uncirculated version (especially with a strong strike and full red color) can be a rewarding challenge.
Furthermore, these cents are known to have various minor errors and varieties. While this specific coin does not show obvious signs of a major error like a doubled die, careful examination with a magnifying glass can sometimes reveal subtle details that make a coin unique. The 1962-D cent is a testament to the sheer volume and quality of the U.S. Mint’s production during the mid-20th century, and it remains a beloved piece of currency for collectors and enthusiasts alike.
