A Centennial Journey: Who is the Face on the American Penny?

The face on the American penny is a familiar sight to millions of Americans every day, but have you ever stopped to wonder who that person is and why their image appears on what is arguably the smallest, most used coin in circulation? In this article, we delve into the history and significance behind the choice of Abraham Lincoln for the one-cent coin, and explore the nuances of the term "penny" in the context of the United States and Canada.

The History and Symbolism of the Coin

The use of images on coins has a long and rich history dating back to ancient times. From gods and goddesses to rulers and other important figures, the images on coins have served as propaganda tools throughout history. In the case of the US penny, the choice of Abraham Lincoln was both symbolic and highly appropriate. Abraham Lincoln, the 16th US President, served from 1861 to 1865 and is best known for his role in leading the country through the Civil War and his issuance of the Emancipation Proclamation.

Ascension to the Coin

The image of Abraham Lincoln was first featured on the penny in 1909, marking the centennial of his birth. The choice was made to honor a figure who fought for the union of the states and for the abolition of slavery. The coin was designed by Victor David Brenner, a renowned artist. The obverse (front) features Lincoln's profile, while the reverse (back) originally showed a depiction of the Lincoln Memorial. This coin design has withstood the test of time and remains the design used to this day, symbolizing respect and remembrance for the legacy of Lincoln.

Understanding the Term "Penny"

It's important to note that "penny" is a term with nuances in different contexts. In British English, a "penny" is a unit of currency under one pound. However, in American English, a "penny" is slang for the one-cent coin. The coin officially named "cent" and colloquially known as the "penny" has an interesting history in both the United States and Canada. While the term "penny" is widely used in the US, it's worth noting that in Canada, the coin is known as the "penny" as well, but it was phased out in 2012 due to production costs, leaving it as a token of a past monetary system.

Canada's Abandoned Cent

Although the "penny" is no longer being produced in Canada, it remains in circulation as legal tender. Canadian pennies, much like American pennies, feature the image of the reigning monarch at the time of their creation. For the majority of the 20th century, this was Queen Elizabeth II. However, the decision to phase out the penny was made to save costs, as the production costs of the coin exceeded its face value due to inflation and the high cost of producing a small, lightweight coin in precious metals.

Conclusion

The face of the American penny—Abraham Lincoln—has stood the test of time, symbolizing the values of unity and freedom that he embodied. As the term "penny" reflects different uses across the globe, understanding the context and history of the coin provides a deeper appreciation for its significance. Whether in the United States or Canada, the legacy of Lincoln continues to be carried forward on this humble but powerful coin.