Different Kinds of Pennies
Exploring the history of the penny provides a fascinating glimpse into the evolution of currency in the United States. These small coins have gone through numerous changes in materials, designs, and sizes. Each variation of the penny tells a unique story about the period in which it was minted.
1793 Chain Cent
The first type of penny minted was the Chain Cent in 1793. It featured a chain of 15 links on the reverse side symbolizing unity among the original colonies. The obverse had the Liberty figure with flowing hair. The design quickly met with criticism, as many felt the chain represented slavery, leading to its quick replacement.
1793-1796 Wreath Cent
Following the Chain Cent, the Wreath Cent was introduced. The reverse now included a wreath surrounding “ONE CENT” while keeping the obverse similar. The changes in the wreath design and minor adjustments to Liberty’s depiction marked this period’s experimentation in coinage aesthetics.
1796-1807 Draped Bust Cent
The Draped Bust Cent arrived next, lasting from 1796 to 1807. This version showcased a more refined image of Liberty on the obverse, designed by artist Robert Scot. The reverse included an ornate wreath and the denomination. The elegance of this design indicated an evolving national style.
1808-1814 Classic Head Cent
The Classic Head Cent featured a revised depiction of Liberty with her hair bound by a ribbon. This period also marked an improvement in the minting process. The copper used in the Classic Head Cent was of better quality, reflecting ongoing technological advancements.
1816-1839 Matron Head Cent
The Matron Head Cent saw Liberty’s head enlarged, making her appearance more matronly and detailed. The reverse design remained largely unchanged, maintaining the wreath and the denomination. These coins continued to use copper, ensuring durability and a distinctive look.
1839-1857 Braided Hair Cent
The Braided Hair Cent featured yet another representation of Liberty, now with a braided hair design by Christian Gobrecht. This iteration lasted until the size of one-cent coins was reduced in 1857. The larger size and nearly pure copper content of these coins made them distinct and collectible.
1856-1858 Flying Eagle Cent
The transition to smaller pennies began with the Flying Eagle Cent, struck between 1856 and 1858. These coins were composed of 88% copper and 12% nickel. The obverse displayed an eagle in flight, and the reverse had a wreath. The introduction of nickel improved the coin’s durability and usability.
1859-1909 Indian Head Cent
The Indian Head Cent replaced the Flying Eagle Cent, designed by James Barton Longacre. Liberty was depicted wearing a Native American headdress, symbolizing the nation’s respect for indigenous culture. These cents used a bronze composition, consistent until the end of their minting.
1909-present Lincoln Cent
The Lincoln Cent, first issued in 1909, remains in circulation today. Designed by Victor David Brenner, it was the first U.S. coin to feature a historical figure rather than the allegorical Liberty. Abraham Lincoln’s portrait commemorates the centennial of his birth. The reverse initially displayed wheat ears, which were later changed to the Lincoln Memorial in 1959, and most recently, the Union Shield in 2010. The composition of these pennies has also evolved, with earlier coins comprising primarily copper, transitioning to copper-plated zinc from 1982 onwards.
1943 Steel Cent
During World War II, copper was needed for war efforts, leading to the production of the 1943 Steel Cent. These coins were made from steel coated with zinc, giving them a distinctly different appearance. However, production returned to copper-based materials the following year due to issues such as rust and confusion with dimes.
The penny’s evolution reflects technological advances, artistic trends, and historical developments. Collectors and history enthusiasts value different kinds of pennies, each representing a piece of the nation’s past. Understanding the changes in design, material, and minting practices provides deep insights into American history and culture.