LINCOLN SHIELD PENNY IN REVIEW

Welcome to another great numismatic adventure!

Let's take a closer look at the reverse of our Lincoln Shield pennies.

This design was first introduced in 2010 as the latest long-running design for the Lincoln penny. It is also the seventh reverse design of this coin since it was first produced in 1909.

The shield design is sometimes referred to as the "Union Shield" or the "Shield of Union" and has been used before on some earlier designs of American coinage, medals, and tokens.

Traditionally, the Union Shield has come to symbolize the importance of uniting the 13 original Colonies into one country; The  "United States of America" which you will find written above the Union Shield along the rim.

Looking closely now, we can break down the elements that make up the Union Shield.

You will notice 13 stripes running vertically down the lower part of the shield. There is one stripe for each of the 13 original colonies which formed into States.

At the top of the Union Shield, you will notice that the stripes are united by a crossbar, that symbolizes the Federal Government.

Across the crossbar, you will read a phrase written in Latin, "E PLURIBUS UNUM" In English this translates to, "One From Many." This was America's first motto, and refers to forming one country from many States. If you count the number of letters in the Latin phrase, you might be surprised to discover, there's 13 of them, too!

The refreshed design of our traditional symbol of our country's unity, is meant to honor Abraham Lincoln for preserving the unity of the United States of America during the Civil War that threatened to tear them apart.

What a beautiful specimen to show us that a coin does not have to be old or expensive to be interesting and worth collecting.

Add your thoughts about the new penny design in the comments below. Also, include any coin-related questions you might have, and don't forget to follow this blog for our next exciting coin roll hunt.

Build your numismatic knowledge with these great books!
1) A Guide Book of United States Coins: The Official Red Book
2) The Complete Guide to Lincoln Cents

Happy Hunting!