1949-S 1C, BN (Regular Strike)

The 1949-S Lincoln Cent, bearing the mint mark "S" for the San Francisco Mint, is a notable piece for collectors and numismatists alike. This coin belongs to the Lincoln Wheat Cent series, which ran from 1909 to 1958 and remains popular among collectors for its historical significance and design. ### Mintage and Mint * **Mint:** San Francisco * **Mintage:** 64,290,000 The San Francisco Mint produced 64,290,000 units of the 1949-S Lincoln Cent. Though not as scarce as other key dates in the series, its mint status and condition significantly impact its value. The coin is recognizable by its Wheat Ear reverse design, crafted by Victor D. Brenner, and Abraham Lincoln's profile on the obverse. ### Rarity and Grading For the 1949-S 1C in Brown (BN) condition, factors such as strike quality, surface preservation, and luster contribute to its rarity and desirability among collectors. Despite the relatively high mintage, the survival rate of specimens in pristine condition is lower, with flawless examples being considerably rare. Common grades for this coin range from VG (Very Good) to MS (Mint State), with Mint State coins particularly sought after. ### PCGS Details - **PCGS #:** 2752 PCGS, a reputable grading service, classifies this coin under the number 2752. Coins graded by PCGS benefit from increased collector trust, influencing both market demand and sales price. ### Value and Sales The value of a 1949-S Lincoln Cent in Brown condition varies, depending on its preservation state and market trends. On average, circulated examples may fetch a few dollars, while uncirculated specimens can range significantly higher. For instance, an MS67 graded example achieved over $2,000 in recent sales. Market trends show that higher-end, well-preserved coins consistently perform well at auction, reflecting collector preference for quality and rarity. ### Historical Significance From a numismatist's perspective, the 1949-S Lincoln Cent represents post-World War II America, a period marked by economic growth and social change. Collecting coins from this era offers insights into the minting processes and economic conditions of the late 1940s. The Lincoln Wheat Cent's enduring design also highlights the period's artistic and cultural values—reverence for historical figures and the continuity of American ideals. In conclusion, the 1949-S Lincoln Cent, especially in BN condition, remains an intriguing piece for collectors. Its affordability, combined with the historical significance and varying degrees of scarcity in higher grades, makes it a staple in many numismatic collections.