2009 Lincoln Cent Roll - Birthplace

Qty	Wire/Check	Bitcoin	CC/PayPal
1-9	$3.95	-	$4.11
10-49	$2.95	$2.98	$3.07
50 or more	$1.95	-	$2.03

The 2009 Lincoln Cent Roll featuring the "Birthplace" design holds a special place in American numismatic history, celebrating the bicentennial of Abraham Lincoln’s birth. Abraham Lincoln, one of the most revered figures in U.S. history, was born on February 12, 1809, in a humble log cabin in Hardin County, Kentucky, now part of present-day LaRue County. To commemorate the 200th anniversary of Lincoln’s birth and the 100th anniversary of the Lincoln cent itself, the U.S. Mint introduced a series of four new reverse designs for the cent, with the "Birthplace" design being the first released in the sequence. Collectors and the general public alike showed immediate enthusiasm for these historically significant coins, as they marked an important moment both in Lincoln’s legacy and in the ongoing story of American coinage.

The design of the 2009 Lincoln Cent "Birthplace" reverse pays homage to Lincoln’s humble beginnings in a one-room log cabin. Created by United States Mint Artistic Infusion Program artist Richard Masters and sculpted by U.S. Mint engraver Jim Licaretz, the reverse features a simple yet poignant depiction of the frontier cabin, set against a background that evokes the rugged spirit of early nineteenth-century America. The inscriptions on the reverse include "United States of America," "E Pluribus Unum," and "One Cent," along with the date "1809" to signify Lincoln’s birth year. This imagery captures the humble origins from which Lincoln rose to become one of the nation’s greatest leaders, emphasizing the American ideal that greatness can emerge from modest beginnings.

The obverse of the 2009 Lincoln Cent "Birthplace" remains faithful to the iconic portrait of Abraham Lincoln designed by Victor David Brenner, first introduced in 1909. Brenner’s original design, celebrated for its realism and dignity, was retained for the bicentennial issues to maintain the connection to the cent’s historical roots. The inscriptions "In God We Trust," "Liberty," and the year "2009" accompany Lincoln’s enduring likeness, along with a mintmark indicating the coin’s place of production. The decision to preserve Brenner’s obverse design while updating the reverse for the bicentennial series was a thoughtful nod to both tradition and innovation, allowing collectors to appreciate the continuity and evolution of American coinage.

The 2009 Lincoln Cent "Birthplace" coins were struck at both the Philadelphia and Denver Mints, distinguished by their respective "P" (no mintmark, as is customary for Philadelphia cents) and "D" mintmarks. These coins were produced for circulation as well as for special collector sets, with the standard circulation issues struck in a copper-plated zinc composition (97.5% zinc, 2.5% copper). However, special collector versions were minted in a composition closer to the original 1909 cent: 95% copper, 5% tin and zinc. These special compositions were included in the U.S. Mint's 2009 Lincoln Bicentennial One-Cent Proof Set and the 2009 Mint Set, providing collectors with an opportunity to acquire coins made of traditional materials and struck with higher-quality finishes.

The mintage figures for the 2009 Lincoln Cent "Birthplace" coins are impressive, reflecting widespread public interest and the Mint’s commitment to ensuring adequate availability. The Philadelphia Mint struck approximately 284,400,000 examples, while the Denver Mint produced about 350,400,000 pieces. Combined, more than 634 million "Birthplace" cents entered circulation, making them highly accessible to collectors and the general public. The special collector issues with the 95% copper composition were produced in significantly smaller numbers, enhancing their desirability. The availability of full rolls directly from the U.S. Mint during the year of issue provided collectors an easy way to obtain uncirculated examples of these historic coins in quantity.

The condition of 2009 Lincoln Cent "Birthplace" coins varies widely depending on their method of distribution and subsequent handling. Circulated examples commonly exhibit contact marks, dulling, and minor abrasions due to their time in commerce. However, uncirculated rolls, especially those purchased directly from the U.S. Mint or reputable dealers and carefully stored, often contain coins in superb condition. These coins display strong strikes, brilliant luster, and minimal signs of handling. Higher-grade specimens, often designated as MS66, MS67, or even MS68 by grading services such as PCGS and NGC, are highly sought after by collectors aiming to assemble premium quality sets of the 2009 Lincoln Bicentennial series.

The U.S. Mint packaged the original 2009 Lincoln Cent "Birthplace" rolls in custom-designed wrappers bearing the Mint’s official logo, along with clear indications of the coin type and mint of origin. These specially marked rolls became popular collector items, particularly among those seeking to preserve a tangible piece of the bicentennial celebration. Collectors value rolls that remain unopened and undisturbed, as they are believed to contain coins in the best possible condition, potentially even yielding high-grade examples if later submitted for certification. The combination of historical significance, artistic design, and packaging authenticity makes original Mint rolls a prized addition to Lincoln cent collections.

The "Birthplace" design holds particular sentimental value for many Americans, serving as a reminder of Lincoln’s rise from modest origins to the presidency during one of the nation's most challenging periods. The simplicity of the log cabin motif resonates deeply, symbolizing perseverance, self-reliance, and the American Dream. As such, the 2009 Lincoln Cent "Birthplace" coin transcends its modest face value, offering collectors and history enthusiasts a meaningful connection to the life and times of Abraham Lincoln. Many collectors strive to assemble complete sets of all four 2009 reverse designs, but the "Birthplace" cent often holds a special place as the starting point of Lincoln’s journey.

From a market perspective, rolls of the 2009 Lincoln Cent "Birthplace" coins continue to enjoy steady demand, particularly among newer collectors and those specializing in modern U.S. coinage. Although the large mintage figures mean these coins are readily available, finding rolls in pristine, unopened condition is becoming increasingly difficult over time. As more rolls are opened and individual coins are removed for grading or personal collections, the supply of original rolls naturally diminishes, enhancing their collectible appeal. Moreover, high-grade certified specimens can command significant premiums, especially when graded MS67 or higher, attesting to the ongoing interest and respect collectors have for this important commemorative issue.

The 2009 Lincoln Cent Roll featuring the "Birthplace" design stands as a fitting tribute to Abraham Lincoln’s humble beginnings and enduring legacy. Combining historical resonance, thoughtful artistry, and broad accessibility, these coins and rolls continue to captivate collectors across generations. Whether kept as part of a complete bicentennial set, saved as a piece of American history, or pursued for their potential high-grade examples, the "Birthplace" cents offer a meaningful and rewarding collecting experience. As the years go by, they will remain a testament to the spirit of Lincoln and the rich tradition of American coinage.