2012-P (Philadelphia) Lincoln Cents - Bicentennial and Shield Reverse

Coin / United States of America / 2012 / Philadelphia / Lincoln Cents - Bicentennial and Shield Reverse / 1¢ (One Cent, Penny)

The coin in question is a 2012 Lincoln Cent, commonly referred to as a penny. This particular coin is part of the Lincoln Cents series, specifically featuring the Bicentennial and Shield reverse designs. It was minted at the Philadelphia mint, denoted by the 'P' mint mark. This one-cent coin has a diameter of 19.00 millimeters and weighs 2.5 grams. It is composed of copper-plated zinc, a common material used in modern U.S. coinage. The mintage for this particular design in 2012 is remarkably high, with a total of approximately 3,132,000,000 coins struck, making it widely available in circulation. As a denomination of 1¢, this coin represents a small value in the U.S. currency system, specifically denoting one cent. Its design features the iconic image of Abraham Lincoln on the obverse, a tribute to the 16th President of the United States. The reverse showcases the shield design, symbolizing strength and protection, which was introduced in recent years to replace the previous Lincoln Memorial design. Given its commonality and recent mintage, this coin is primarily of interest to collectors in uncirculated or mint state conditions but generally holds low numismatic value in circulated form. As part of the modern U.S. coinage, it continues to serve as a fundamental unit of currency in everyday transactions throughout the United States.