In 2009 the U.S. Mint released four different commemorative reverse designs to mark the 200th anniversary of Lincoln's birth. Most 2009 cents are worth face value, but a few error varieties — particularly the Formative Years finger doubled die — bring real money.
2009 Birthplace (log cabin), Formative Years (young Lincoln reading on a log), Professional Life (Lincoln as lawyer in Springfield), and Presidency (the half-finished Capitol dome). Each was struck at Philadelphia, Denver, and San Francisco.
On the Formative Years reverse, look at Lincoln's finger and thumb. The famous DDR variety shows clearly doubled fingers. It is one of the most valuable modern doubled dies.
Normal 2009 cents from circulation are worth face value. Mint-state examples bring 25 cents to $1. The Formative Years finger doubled die sells for $50 to $300 in circulated condition and $500 to $2,500 uncirculated.
To commemorate the 200th anniversary of Abraham Lincoln's birth. Each design depicts a different stage of his life.
The 2009 Formative Years finger doubled die. Circulated examples sell for $50 to $300, uncirculated for $500 to $2,500.
Yes. They are common in pocket change. Search rolls of pennies for the four bicentennial reverses and check the Formative Years variety carefully.
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