Collection: Type 5, Bi-Centennial (2009)

In 2009, the U.S. Mint honored both the bicentennial of Abraham Lincoln’s birth and the centennial of the Lincoln Cent with a special four-coin commemorative series. Each reverse design depicts a key chapter in Lincoln’s life, creating a cohesive numismatic tribute to one of America’s most revered figures. These 2009 Lincoln Bicentennial Cents represent a cornerstone in ... Read More

In 2009, the U.S. Mint honored both the bicentennial of Abraham Lincoln’s birth and the centennial of the Lincoln Cent with a special four-coin commemorative series. Each reverse design depicts a key chapter in Lincoln’s life, creating a cohesive numismatic tribute to one of America’s most revered figures. These 2009 Lincoln Bicentennial Cents represent a cornerstone in modern U.S. coin collecting and continue to attract attention from collectors and historians alike.

The obverse of each coin retains Victor David Brenner’s classic 1909 portrait of President Lincoln, while the reverse designs commemorate the following stages of his life:

1. Birth and Early Childhood in Kentucky – Featuring a log cabin, this design reflects Lincoln’s humble beginnings in Hardin County, Kentucky.

2. Formative Years in Indiana – Illustrates a young Lincoln reading while taking a break from rail splitting, symbolizing his dedication to self-education.

3. Professional Life in Illinois – Depicts Lincoln as a young attorney in front of the Illinois State Capitol, highlighting his growth as a statesman and lawyer.

4. Presidency in Washington, D.C. – Shows the U.S. Capitol dome under construction, a powerful symbol of a nation enduring civil war and Lincoln’s leadership through the Union’s preservation.

Circulation-strike versions of the 2009 Lincoln Cents were minted in the standard copper-plated zinc composition, consistent with other modern cents. However, collectors had access to special collector-edition strikes produced in the traditional pre-1982 bronze alloy—95% copper, 5% tin and zinc—available exclusively in Mint-issued Proof Sets and Uncirculated Coin Sets. These bronze compositions mirror the original alloy used when the Lincoln Cent debuted in 1909.

Due to their historic significance, short-lived production, and dual-metal composition, 2009 Lincoln Bicentennial Cents hold a unique position in U.S. numismatics. Collectors seek these coins both as individual types and as complete four-coin sets in high grades—particularly those certified by PCGS or NGC with Red (RD) designations and premium strike quality.

At ParadimeCoins.com, we offer carefully curated 2009 Lincoln Bicentennial Cents for collectors seeking certified examples in Mint State and Proof formats. Whether you're completing a full Lincoln cent collection or showcasing pivotal moments in American history through coinage, the 2009 series serves as a powerful numismatic narrative of Lincoln’s enduring legacy.

Perfect for display sets, educational collections, and modern U.S. type sets, these coins bridge over a century of Lincoln cent history and remain a compelling addition to any collector’s portfolio.