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The Lincoln Cent, introduced in 1909, remains one of the most iconic coins in American numismatics, celebrated for its portrayal of President Abraham Lincoln. The 1939-S Lincoln Cent represents a specific chapter in the series, reflecting both the economic climate of the late 1930s and the continued evolution of coin design. Minted during the Great Depression, this coin offers collectors a glimpse into the period’s economic challenges and the enduring legacy of Lincoln on American currency.
Victor David Brenner’s design for the Lincoln Cent has become a cornerstone of American coinage. On the 1939-S Lincoln Cent, the obverse features Brenner’s renowned portrait of Abraham Lincoln, facing left. This design captures Lincoln’s dignified and thoughtful demeanor, showcasing the detailed engravings of his features. The inscription “IN GOD WE TRUST” is positioned above Lincoln’s head, emphasizing the nation’s values and faith during that era. The year of minting, “1939,” is placed directly below Lincoln’s portrait, providing a clear reference to the coin’s production year. The reverse side of the coin displays two wheat stalks that frame the denomination “ONE CENT.” Surrounding these stalks are the inscriptions “UNITED STATES OF AMERICA” and “E PLURIBUS UNUM,” reflecting the coin’s role in representing the unity and strength of the nation.
The 1939-S Lincoln Cent was produced at the San Francisco Mint, with the “S” mint mark indicating its origin. The total mintage for this issue was approximately 20,170,000. This mintage figure reflects a period of gradual economic recovery from the Great Depression, as the demand for coinage remained significant. The San Francisco Mint played a crucial role in meeting the nation's coinage needs, and the 1939-S Lincoln Cent is a testament to the mint’s ongoing production efforts during this time. Despite the relatively high mintage, Red Uncirculated examples of the 1939-S Lincoln Cent are highly valued for their pristine condition and the preservation of their original finish.
In terms of condition, the Red Uncirculated 1939-S Lincoln Cent is prized for its exceptional state of preservation. Coins in this condition exhibit the original, vibrant reddish-orange color, which indicates that the coin has been preserved in its original mint state. The surfaces of a Red Uncirculated 1939-S Lincoln Cent should be smooth and lustrous, showcasing a high level of detail in both the obverse and reverse designs. The portrait of Lincoln, the wheat stalks, and the inscriptions should remain sharp and well-defined, reflecting the quality of the original strike. A Red Uncirculated coin will show no signs of wear, discoloration, or tarnish, preserving the coin’s aesthetic appeal and historical value.
The 1939-S Lincoln Cent holds significant value for collectors due to its historical context and the exceptional quality of Red Uncirculated specimens. The coin’s design, which reflects the artistic vision of Victor David Brenner, continues to capture the essence of Abraham Lincoln’s legacy. The high mintage of the 1939-S Lincoln Cent underscores its role in meeting the coinage needs of the late 1930s, yet the Red Uncirculated examples are highly sought after for their pristine condition. Collectors and historians alike appreciate this coin not only for its artistic and historical significance but also for its role in illustrating the enduring appeal of the Lincoln Cent series during a pivotal period in American history.