The 1909 Lincoln Penny__Story

The Lincoln Penny was first minted in 1909, the centennial year of Lincoln's birth. The profile-side was designed by sculptor, engraver and medalist, Victor David Brenner, who met directly with President Roosevelt most likely about the coinage design.

This was the first time that a real person was depicted on a US coin and Brenner had said he modeled his design after Lincoln's expressions when reading to a child. On the day of the release, citizens lined up at Treasury facilities as images of the coin had not previously been published and the public, already excited about the centennial, speculated about the design.

In 2009, Tokens & Icons released the 1909 Lincoln Penny Cuff Links to commemorate the 100th Anniversary of its minting. The coins used in this item are exclusively from this first year of production.