1944 Lincoln Cent Appraisal

1944 Lincoln Cent (Penny)

The item is a United States one-cent coin, commonly known as a penny. Specifically, it is a Lincoln cent, identifiable by the prominent bust of Abraham Lincoln facing right on the obverse side. The coin appears to be struck from a copper or copper-alloy material, exhibiting a typical reddish-brown patina consistent with aged copper coinage. The diameter seems standard for a U.S. cent, approximately 19 mm. Key inscriptions visible on the obverse include "IN GOD WE TRUST" arching over Lincoln's head, "LIBERTY" to his left, and the minting year "1944" to his right. There are no immediately discernible mint marks in the provided image, which would typically be located below the date. The surface shows signs of circulation and age, including some minor scratches and possible superficial dirt or residue, particularly noticeable on the field surrounding Lincoln's portrait and on the bust itself. The raised elements of Lincoln's profile and the lettering appear relatively sharp, suggesting it is not severely worn, but there is a clear absence of original mint luster. The overall condition could be described as 'fine' to 'very fine' based on the visible details, meaning some wear on the higher points but significant detail remaining. The specific year 1944 is notable as it falls within the period of World War II; however, this particular coin is not the steel cent issued in 1943, but rather a standard copper alloy cent, indicating it was likely struck during the years when copper was reintroduced for pennies or possibly a shell casing variant, though without a clearer view of the reverse it's hard to confirm the latter. The craftsmanship is typical of mass-produced treasury coinage.