Penny Reverse Appraisal

United States Lincoln Memorial Cent (Reverse)

This item is a United States one-cent coin, commonly referred to as a penny, showing the 'Memorial' reverse design. The coin is composed of a copper-plated zinc core (standard for pennies minted after mid-1982) or potentially a 95% copper alloy if minted between 1959 and early 1982. It features the iconic Lincoln Memorial at the center, with the inscriptions 'UNITED STATES OF AMERICA' across the top and 'ONE CENT' at the bottom. The motto 'E PLURIBUS UNUM' is visible above the monument. Centered between the middle columns of the memorial, a tiny representation of Abraham Lincoln's statue can be seen. The coin displays a light brown to tan patina with significant surface wear on the high points of the design, such as the monument's frieze and steps. There is a noticeable amount of circulating grime and minor surface abrasions consistent with regular use. The strikes on the lettering appear relatively clean, though softened by age and circulation. Given the overall color and lack of original mint luster, this is a circulated specimen likely dating from the 1960s to the 1990s.