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The Certified Commemorative Dollar 2009-P Lincoln Bicentennial MS70 NGC stands as a tribute to one of America’s most revered presidents, honoring the 200th anniversary of Abraham Lincoln’s birth. This silver dollar, struck at the Philadelphia Mint, is graded a perfect MS70 by the Numismatic Guaranty Company (NGC), meaning it is flawless under 5x magnification with no visible imperfections. As part of the U.S. Mint’s 2009 commemorative coin program, this issue captures both numismatic and historical significance, combining the artistry of modern coinage with the legacy of Lincoln’s enduring impact on the nation.
The 2009 Lincoln Bicentennial Commemorative Silver Dollar was authorized by Congress under Public Law 109-285, which approved the minting of up to 500,000 silver dollars in honor of the 16th president’s 200th birthday. Released during a year that also saw four distinct Lincoln one-cent designs reflecting stages of his life, this silver dollar complemented the penny series with a more formal and enduring numismatic tribute. As a one-year-only commemorative coin, it quickly attracted the interest of both collectors and historians, especially when presented in MS70 condition by a top-tier grading service like NGC.
The obverse of the 2009 Lincoln dollar features a powerful right-facing portrait of Abraham Lincoln by Justin Kunz. Lincoln’s image is based on multiple photographs from his presidency, capturing his solemn, resolute expression with exceptional realism. Above the portrait appears the word “LIBERTY,” while “IN GOD WE TRUST” is inscribed to the right. Below the bust is the year “2009,” and to the left is the “P” mintmark denoting the Philadelphia Mint. In MS70 condition, every strand of Lincoln’s hair, crease in his face, and the texture of his suit are fully struck and pristine, offering the finest level of detail possible.
The reverse design, created by U.S. Mint Sculptor-Engraver Phebe Hemphill, presents a highly detailed image of the final 43 words of the Gettysburg Address, inscribed as if engraved on a stone tablet or monument. This artistic treatment reinforces Lincoln’s legacy not only as a leader but also as one of America’s greatest orators and writers. At the top of the reverse is the inscription “UNITED STATES OF AMERICA,” while the denomination “ONE DOLLAR” and motto “E PLURIBUS UNUM” encircle the text. In MS70 grade, the fine lettering and background detail are completely unmarred, creating an impressive visual balance between texture and flatness—hallmarks of an exemplary modern strike.
The coin was struck in .900 fine silver with a weight of 26.73 grams and a diameter of 38.1 mm. As a traditional commemorative silver dollar, its metal composition includes 90% silver and 10% copper, consistent with the classic silver dollar specifications used in earlier U.S. coinage history. The reeded edge adds a traditional touch, while the modern relief techniques employed by the Mint in 2009 ensured that the coin’s design was deeply engraved, bold, and full of dimensional character. Certified MS70 examples like this are especially desirable for their untouched brilliance and visual perfection.
Only coins that show no signs of contact, blemishes, or wear—even under magnification—earn the MS70 grade. NGC, one of the most respected third-party grading services, certifies coins with rigorous standards, and their encapsulated holders both preserve and authenticate the coin’s condition. The coin is housed in an NGC slab with a clear label denoting its year, denomination, mint, and grade. This encapsulation ensures long-term protection against environmental factors and makes the coin easily tradable within the numismatic marketplace.
The 2009-P Lincoln Bicentennial Silver Dollar had a total authorized mintage of 500,000 coins, with a portion struck in uncirculated format at the Philadelphia Mint and the rest as proofs at the San Francisco Mint. Of the uncirculated “P” mint coins, over 125,000 were sold. However, MS70-graded examples account for a much smaller subset, making them considerably more limited. Due to the coin’s historical subject, its perfect grade, and its relatively low number of surviving top-tier examples, demand remains strong among Lincoln collectors, commemorative specialists, and modern silver dollar enthusiasts alike.
The market for MS70 examples of this coin is consistently strong. Prices generally range from $100 to $175 depending on packaging, label type, and market conditions. Special signature labels, such as those featuring designers or prominent politicians, can command a premium, although the base MS70 version remains popular regardless. Collectors value these coins both for their investment potential and for their appeal as historical keepsakes. Many are presented in educational or thematic collections focusing on American presidents, the Civil War, or patriotic iconography.
This coin’s broader cultural appeal lies in its dual nature: it is at once a fine piece of modern minting technology and a direct tribute to one of the most impactful leaders in U.S. history. Abraham Lincoln’s legacy is revered for preserving the Union, abolishing slavery, and elevating American democracy through profound moral leadership. The inclusion of the Gettysburg Address on the coin reinforces those ideals, making the piece as much an artifact of national identity as it is a collectible object. Owning the coin in MS70 condition ensures that its message and design are preserved in pristine clarity for generations to come.
In conclusion, the Certified Commemorative Dollar 2009-P Lincoln Bicentennial MS70 NGC stands at the intersection of numismatic excellence and American historical tribute. Its flawless condition, limited mintage, and rich symbolism make it an ideal acquisition for collectors seeking a modern classic. Whether added to a commemorative dollar set, a presidential series, or a standalone tribute to Lincoln himself, this coin exemplifies the dignity, artistry, and legacy that define the highest ideals of U.S. coinage. It remains a shining example of how coins can commemorate, educate, and inspire all at once.