First 12 Years of the Lincoln Cent 1909-1920 13 Coin Set

Explore the early history of one of America's most recognizable coins with the First 12 Years of the Lincoln Cent Set. This 13-coin collection features Lincoln Wheat Cents dated 1909 through 1920, representing the first twelve years of production for the iconic Lincoln Cent. Each coin was struck at the Philadelphia Mint and comes in Average Circulated condition, offering an opportunity to own authentic pieces of early 20th-century American coinage.

As an added bonus, this collection includes a 1909 V.D.B. Lincoln Cent, bringing the total to 13 coins. Each coin is individually housed in a protective 2x2 cardboard staple-up holder, making this set a convenient addition to any Lincoln Cent collection. Whether you're beginning a collection of vintage U.S. pennies or expanding an existing assortment, this set offers a wonderful look at the earliest years of the Lincoln Wheat Cent.

The Beginning of the Lincoln Wheat Cent

First introduced in 1909 to commemorate the 100th anniversary of Abraham Lincoln's birth, the Lincoln Cent marked a significant milestone in American coinage. Designed by sculptor Victor David Brenner, it became the first regularly circulating United States coin to feature the portrait of a historical American figure. The obverse displays Lincoln's right-facing portrait alongside the inscriptions "IN GOD WE TRUST," "LIBERTY," and the year of issue.

The reverse features two wheat stalks framing the inscriptions "ONE CENT" and "UNITED STATES OF AMERICA," with "E PLURIBUS UNUM" appearing along the upper rim. This classic design remained in production through 1958, earning these coins the familiar nickname Lincoln Wheat Pennies. The early dates included in this collection represent the beginning of a beloved series that continues to attract coin enthusiasts today.

Includes a Bonus 1909 V.D.B. Lincoln Cent

One of the highlights of this collection is the additional 1909 V.D.B. Lincoln Wheat Cent. When the Lincoln Cent was first released in 1909, designer Victor David Brenner's initials, "V.D.B.," appeared at the bottom of the reverse between the wheat stalks. Following public criticism of their prominence, the initials were removed later that same year, creating two distinct varieties of the inaugural Lincoln Cent.

This set includes a regular 1909 Philadelphia Lincoln Cent along with the bonus 1909 V.D.B. variety, allowing collectors to appreciate this interesting design change. Together with the remaining Philadelphia-minted Lincoln Cents dated 1910 through 1920, these coins provide a fascinating glimpse into the early evolution of one of America's longest-running coin series.

First 12 Years of the Lincoln Cent Set Details

This 13-piece Lincoln Wheat Cent collection includes one Philadelphia-minted Lincoln Cent from each year between 1909 and 1920, plus an additional 1909 V.D.B. Lincoln Cent. All coins are in Average Circulated condition, reflecting their history as genuine pieces of American circulating currency. Individual coins may display varying degrees of wear consistent with their age and circulation.

Each coin comes individually packaged in a 2x2 cardboard staple-up holder for convenient handling, organization, and storage. This collection makes an excellent introduction to early Lincoln Wheat Pennies, a thoughtful gift for a history enthusiast, or an appealing addition to a growing assortment of vintage United States coins.

First 12 Years of the Lincoln Cent Set Specifications