Sangamon Sun

The penny, an iconic American coin, has been the subject of much debate and discussion over its cost of production, material composition, and continued use. Despite this, the Lincoln penny holds a significant place in U.S. history. Introduced in 1909 to commemorate President Abraham Lincoln's centennial birth anniversary, it became the first American coin to feature a president.

Before the 20th century, American coins depicted generic personifications like "liberty" or eagles. This changed during Theodore Roosevelt's administration as he sought to elevate America's status among world powers by redesigning currency for artistic appeal. Congress had allowed changes to coin designs that had been in circulation for over 25 years, paving the way for new designs during Roosevelt’s presidency.

Roosevelt admired sculptor Victor David Brenner and enlisted him to design the Lincoln penny. Despite historical reluctance to feature individuals on currency due to associations with monarchies, Roosevelt saw merit in honoring Lincoln—a figure who symbolized unity and freedom—on a U.S. coin.

Brenner designed the front of the penny with Lincoln’s profile based on photographs by Mathew Brady from 1864. Adjustments were made before minting; Brenner’s initials were replaced with just “VDB” due to space constraints but were removed shortly after release due to public disapproval.

William Howard Taft approved the final design which was released on August 2, 1909. The Philadelphia Mint initially produced over 20 million pennies which quickly gained popularity coinciding with Lincoln's centennial celebrations.

Over time, various changes have been made to both sides of the penny including different reverse designs commemorating aspects of Lincoln’s life and milestones such as his sesquicentennial birthday in 1959 and bicentennial in 2009.

Material changes also occurred due to wartime shortages and rising costs: copper was replaced with bronze during World War II; aluminum was considered briefly before settling on a copper-covered zinc composition in 1981.

The latest redesign features a federal shield symbolizing Lincoln's role in preserving national unity—a theme emphasized by Congress when authorizing this change for circulation beginning just before his 201st birthday celebration where collectors once again lined up eagerly for new coins.

“It’s important for us to be back in Springfield,” said U.S. Mint director Ed Moy at an unveiling ceremony reflecting on Springfield's significance in shaping Lincoln’s political career.