Welcome to our guide on what is on the penny.

The United States penny is more than just a tiny, copper coin. It has a wealthy history dating back to the late 1700s and is still extensively used today. In this article, we will take a closer look at the blueprint and features of the penny and explore its captivating history.

History of the Penny:

The penny was first authorized by the Coinage Act of 1792, which made the U.S. Mint. The first pennies were made of copper and were about the size of a modern half-dollar coin. Over time, the size and composition of the penny have changed. In 1856, the penny was reduced in size but maintained its copper composition. During World War II, the penny was briefly made of zinc-coated steel due to a scarcity of copper. In 1962, the composition of the penny was transformed again to its current form, a copper-plated zinc coin.

Blueprint of the Penny:

The blueprint of the penny has also changed over the years. From 1909 to 1958, the penny featured a representation of Abraham Lincoln on the obverse or “heads” side, and two wheat ears on the reverse or “tails” side. In 1959, the wheat ear blueprint was replaced with the current blueprint of the Lincoln Memorial. In 2009, the penny underwent another redesign, this time honoring Lincoln’s 200th birthday with a new reverse blueprint featuring the Lincoln Presidential Shield.

What’s on the Penny:

The penny’s obverse side features a portrait of Abraham Lincoln, with the words “In God We Trust” and the year of minting. The reverse side of the penny features one of four different blueprints, depending on the year it was minted. These blueprints include the Lincoln Memorial, the Lincoln Presidential Shield, the Union Shield, and the Native American Veterans Memorial. Each blueprint represents an important chapter in American history.

Why the Penny Matters:

While some people argue that the penny should be eliminated because it costs more to produce than it is worth, others argue that it still serves an indispensable purpose. The penny is a symbol of American history and culture, and its blueprint changes over the years reflect the changing values and beliefs of the country. Additionally, the penny is an crucial part of the economy, and its use helps to keep prices from rounding up to the nearest nickel.

FAQs:

1. Why is the penny made of copper-plated zinc?

The current composition of the penny was chosen because it is cheaper to produce than a solid copper coin.

2. How much is a penny worth?

The face value of a penny is one cent, but some pennies can be worth more to collectors depending on their condition and rarity.

3. When was “In God We Trust” added to the penny?

The phrase was first added to the penny in 1909.

4. What is the rarest penny?

The 1943 copper penny is considered the rarest penny, as only a few were minted due to the wartime shortage of copper.

5. Can pennies be used to make purchases?

Yes, pennies are still considered legal tender and can be used to make purchases.

Conclusion:

In conclusion, the penny is a minute but important part of American history and culture. Its blueprint and composition have changed over the years, reflecting the values and beliefs of the country. While there are arguments for and against its continued use, the penny remains an important part of the economy and a valuable symbol of American heritage. Thank you for reading our guide on what is on the penny.