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Five coins - the cent and four gold coins - were scheduled for redesign in the first decade of the 20th century. People wanted to put Lincoln's portrait on a coin in honor of the centennial of his birth in 1909. By the time the decision was made, work on designs for the gold coins was already nearing completion so his image was placed on the cent.

The portrait chosen was based on a medal created by the famed sculptor Victor D. Brenner. As things turned out the lowly cent was a far better vehicle to honor Lincoln because everyone carried pennies. In addition production of gold coins ended in 1932 but cents of course continue to be minted, reminding us every day of the man considered to be one of the three greatest presidents.

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10y ago

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