In 1959, the reverse of the Lincoln Cent was changed to depict the Lincoln Memorial. This era marked the transition from copper to zinc-coated planchets in 1982. This sub-sub-category is essential for error hunters looking for “Close AM” varieties, Doubled Dies, and the 1974 Aluminum cent rumors.
In 1959, the “Wheat Ears” reverse was replaced by Frank Gasparro’s depiction of the Lincoln Memorial. This 50-year run is notable for the 1982 composition change. Before mid-1982, pennies were 95% copper; after, they became zinc-cored with a thin copper plating.
Collector’s Note: Collectors focus on “Large Date” vs. “Small Date” varieties from 1960 and 1982. This series is also a “cherry-picker’s” paradise for doubled dies, such as the 1972, 1983, 1984 (Doubled Ear), and 1995 DDOs. For modern registry sets, “Close AM” and “Wide AM” reverse varieties from the 1990s are the primary focus.
The Lincoln Memorial Cents are perhaps the most recognized coins in the world, having served as the primary small-denomination currency of the United States for half a century. Introduced in 1959 to commemorate the 150th anniversary of Abraham Lincoln’s birth, the Memorial reverse replaced the iconic “Wheat Ears” design that had been in place since…