1957 Cent Appraisal

1957 Lincoln Wheat Cent

The item is a United States one-cent coin, commonly known as a penny, specifically identified as a Lincoln Wheat Cent due to the visible obverse design. The coin appears to be made of copper, exhibiting a reddish-brown color with significant darkening and apparent toning or environmental damage that has obscured some of the finer details. The image shows the obverse side of the coin, featuring a right-facing bust of Abraham Lincoln. Above Lincoln's head, the inscription 'IN GOD WE TRUST' is partially visible, though heavily worn. To Lincoln's left, the word 'LIBERTY' is discernible, also showing wear. The date '1957' is clearly legible to Lincoln's right. The raised details of Lincoln's portrait are flattened, indicating considerable circulation wear. There are no clear mint marks immediately visible in the provided image. The surface of the coin appears non-uniform with darker patches and possible areas of corrosion or accumulated grime, particularly around the perimeter and within the recessed areas of the design. The rim of the coin seems relatively intact but is also affected by the overall darkening. The condition suggests that this coin has been in circulation for a long period and has not been preserved in a protective environment. This coin belongs to the 'Wheat Penny' series, which was minted from 1909 to 1958, making its estimated age 67 years old as of 2024. The general craftsmanship aligns with mass-produced coinage of the mid-20th century.