The guy featured on the United States penny is Abraham Lincoln, the 16th President of the United States.
Abraham Lincoln: The Enduring Face of the Penny
Abraham Lincoln has appeared on the obverse (heads side) of the U.S. penny since 1909. This makes the Lincoln Cent one of the longest-running coin designs in American history to continuously feature the same individual. His image was chosen to commemorate the 100th anniversary of his birth, recognizing his profound historical significance, particularly his leadership during the Civil War and his efforts to preserve the nation.
A Legacy in Copper: Why Lincoln Was Chosen
Lincoln's presidency (1861-1865) was a pivotal period in American history. His leadership during the Civil War, his commitment to abolishing slavery, and his steadfast resolve in preserving the Union solidified his place as one of the most revered figures in the nation's past. The decision to feature him on the cent was a tribute to his enduring legacy and impact on American society.
The Penny's Reverse: A Journey Through Time
While Abraham Lincoln's portrait has remained constant on the front of the penny, the design on the reverse (tails side) has changed several times over the years, reflecting different periods and milestones:
- Wheat Cent (1909-1958): The original reverse design, often called the "Wheat Cent," featured two stalks of wheat flanking the words "ONE CENT" and "UNITED STATES OF AMERICA."
- Lincoln Memorial Cent (1959-2008): To mark the 150th anniversary of Lincoln's birth, the reverse was updated to depict the iconic Lincoln Memorial in Washington, D.C.
- Bicentennial Designs (2009): In 2009, four special reverse designs were released to celebrate the 200th anniversary of Lincoln's birth. Each design illustrated a different aspect of his life:
- Birth and Early Childhood (log cabin)
- Formative Years (young Lincoln reading)
- Professional Life (Lincoln as a legislator)
- Presidency (unfinished U.S. Capitol dome)
- Union Shield (2010-Present): The current reverse design, introduced in 2010, features a Union Shield. This design symbolizes Lincoln's commitment to preserving the United States as a single, united nation.
Understanding the Penny's Design Elements
Beyond Lincoln's profile, the penny includes several other inscriptions and symbols:
- Obverse (Heads Side):
- Abraham Lincoln's profile
- "IN GOD WE TRUST" (above Lincoln's head)
- "LIBERTY" (to Lincoln's left)
- The year of minting and mint mark (to Lincoln's right)
- Reverse (Tails Side):
- "UNITED STATES OF AMERICA"
- "E PLURIBUS UNUM" (Latin for "Out of many, one")
- "ONE CENT"
- The Union Shield (current design)
Key Facts About the Lincoln Cent
For a quick overview of the penny's central features, refer to the table below:
| Feature | Detail |
|---|---|
| Person on Penny | Abraham Lincoln |
| Presidential No. | 16th President of the United States |
| First Year on Coin | 1909 |
| Side Featured | Obverse (Heads) |
| Current Reverse | Union Shield |
Where to Learn More
For more official information about U.S. coins, including the penny, you can explore the U.S. Mint's official resources.
