Union Shield Adorns Newly Designed One Cent Coin

For the fifth time in the course of the previous two years, the Lincoln One Cent coin is getting a redesign. The new design will be limited to the "tails side" of the coin, which will be redesigned for the year 2010 and beyond. The goal of the new design is to represent Abraham Lincoln's legacy and lasting impact through the preservation of the Union.

The 2010 Lincoln Cent features a depiction of the Union Shield. This shield consists of thirteen vertical stripes joined at the top by a single horizontal bar. The symbol dates back to the 1780's and was in widespread use during the Civil War years. It is intended to represent the original thirteen states joined together in support of the federal government.

The Union Shield is depicted with a classical look, as it might have appeared during its years of use during the 18th and 19th century. Required inscriptions are arranged logically throughout the image with "E Pluribus Unum" (Out of Many, One) on the top of the shield, the denomination "One Cent" on a banner running across the shield, and the country "United States of America" above the shield. The reverse was designed by Lyndall Bass and sculpted by Joseph Menna.

To go with the new reverse design will be the original bust of Lincoln that has become a familiar fixture on circulating coins. The design of the "heads side" of the one cent coin has been in continuous use for more than 100 years. The original designer was Victor D. Brenner. For the issuance of the new design, the United States Mint will restore the details of the original portrait.

The 2010 Lincoln Cents began appearing in the channels of circulation in mid-January 2010. Production levels for the new coin have been steadily increasing throughout the year, with 1.8 billion coins minted through the first half. The United States Mint strikes one cent coins for circulation at the Philadelphia and Denver Mint with collector versions produced at the San Francisco Mint.

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Find more information and details about 2010 Lincoln Cents. The site includes information on circulation strike coins as well as the collectible 2010 Proof Lincoln Cent.

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