Discovering A Rare Gem: The 2009 Professional Life Penny

What is a 2009 professional life penny?

The 2009 professional life penny is a one-cent coin struck by the United States Mint in 2009. It was the fourth and final coin in the Lincoln Cent and Union Shield cent series, which began in 2005. The coin's obverse (heads) features a portrait of Abraham Lincoln, while the reverse (tails) depicts a Union shield with the motto "E Pluribus Unum" (Out of Many, One).

The 2009 professional life penny was designed by Richard Masters and sculpted by Joseph Menna. It is composed of copper-plated zinc and has a diameter of 19.05 mm (0.75 inches). The coin weighs 2.5 grams (0.088 ounces).

The 2009 professional life penny was released into circulation on January 19, 2009. It is still in circulation today and is worth one cent.

2009 Professional Life Penny

The 2009 Professional Life Penny is a one-cent coin struck by the United States Mint in 2009. It was the fourth and final coin in the Lincoln Cent and Union Shield cent series, which began in 2005.

• Obverse: Abraham Lincoln
• Reverse: Union shield
• Motto: E Pluribus Unum
• Designer: Richard Masters
• Sculptor: Joseph Menna
• Composition: Copper-plated zinc
• Diameter: 19.05 mm
• Weight: 2.5 grams
• Release date: January 19, 2009

The 2009 Professional Life Penny is a significant coin in the history of the Lincoln Cent. It is the last coin in the Lincoln Cent and Union Shield cent series, and it is the first coin to feature the motto "E Pluribus Unum" on the reverse. The coin is also notable for its unique design, which was created by Richard Masters and sculpted by Joseph Menna.

1. Obverse

The obverse of the 2009 Professional Life Penny features a portrait of Abraham Lincoln. This is significant because Lincoln is one of the most iconic figures in American history, and his image is instantly recognizable. By placing Lincoln's portrait on the coin, the United States Mint is honoring his legacy and his contributions to the country.

• Lincoln's presidency
  

  Lincoln is best known for his role as President of the United States during the Civil War. He led the country through its darkest hour and helped to preserve the Union. Lincoln's leadership and determination are an inspiration to all Americans.

• Lincoln's legacy
  

  Lincoln's legacy extends far beyond his presidency. He is remembered as one of the greatest presidents in American history, and his words and deeds continue to inspire people today. Lincoln's vision of a more just and equal society is still relevant today, and his example continues to guide us.

By placing Lincoln's portrait on the 2009 Professional Life Penny, the United States Mint is honoring his legacy and reminding us of his important contributions to the country. Lincoln's image is a symbol of hope, unity, and strength, and it is a fitting tribute to a man who dedicated his life to serving others.

2. Reverse

The reverse of the 2009 Professional Life Penny features a Union shield. This is significant because the Union shield is a symbol of the United States of America. It is a reminder of the country's history and its commitment to unity and strength.

The Union shield is divided into 13 stripes, which represent the 13 original colonies. The shield is also emblazoned with the motto "E Pluribus Unum," which means "Out of many, one." This motto reflects the country's diversity and its commitment to unity.

The Union shield is a powerful symbol of the United States of America. It is a reminder of the country's history, its commitment to unity and strength, and its diversity. By placing the Union shield on the 2009 Professional Life Penny, the United States Mint is honoring the country's heritage and its values.

3. Motto

The motto "E Pluribus Unum" is Latin for "Out of many, one." It is a phrase that has been used to represent the United States of America since the country's founding. The motto is featured on the Great Seal of the United States, and it is also inscribed on the 2009 Professional Life Penny.

• Unity from diversity
  

  The motto "E Pluribus Unum" reflects the diversity of the United States. The country is made up of people from all over the world, and it is this diversity that makes the country strong. The motto reminds us that we are all Americans, regardless of our race, religion, or background.

• Strength in unity
  

  The motto "E Pluribus Unum" also reminds us that we are stronger when we are united. The United States has faced many challenges throughout its history, but we have always overcome them by working together. The motto reminds us that we can achieve anything if we work together.

• A commitment to the future
  

  The motto "E Pluribus Unum" is a reminder of our commitment to the future. We are a nation of immigrants, and we are always striving to create a better life for ourselves and our children. The motto reminds us that we are all in this together, and that we must work together to build a better future for all Americans.

The motto "E Pluribus Unum" is a powerful reminder of the values that make the United States of America a great country. It is a motto that we should all be proud of, and it is a motto that we should all strive to live up to.

4. Designer

Richard Masters is an American coin designer and sculptor. He is best known for his work on the 2009 Professional Life Penny, the fourth and final coin in the Lincoln Cent and Union Shield cent series. Masters' design for the coin features a portrait of Abraham Lincoln on the obverse (heads) and a Union shield on the reverse (tails).

• Artistic style
  

  Masters' artistic style is characterized by his attention to detail and his use of realistic imagery. His design for the 2009 Professional Life Penny is a good example of his work. The portrait of Lincoln is lifelike and expressive, and the Union shield is rendered in great detail.

• Technical skill
  

  Masters is a skilled sculptor and engraver. His work on the 2009 Professional Life Penny demonstrates his technical skill. The coin is well-crafted and has a high level of detail.

• Historical accuracy
  

  Masters' designs are often historically accurate. His design for the 2009 Professional Life Penny is no exception. The coin accurately depicts Lincoln and the Union shield.

• Commemorative value
  

  Masters' coins are often commemorative in nature. The 2009 Professional Life Penny is a good example of this. The coin was issued to commemorate the 200th anniversary of Lincoln's birth.

Richard Masters is a talented coin designer and sculptor. His work on the 2009 Professional Life Penny is a testament to his skill and artistry.

5. Sculptor

Joseph Menna is an American coin sculptor and engraver. He is best known for his work on the 2009 Professional Life Penny, the fourth and final coin in the Lincoln Cent and Union Shield cent series. Menna's design for the coin features a portrait of Abraham Lincoln on the obverse (heads) and a Union shield on the reverse (tails).

Menna's work on the 2009 Professional Life Penny is significant because it is the first time that he has designed a coin for the United States Mint. Menna is a talented sculptor and engraver, and his work on the coin is a testament to his skill and artistry. The coin is well-crafted and has a high level of detail.

The 2009 Professional Life Penny is a commemorative coin that was issued to commemorate the 200th anniversary of Lincoln's birth. The coin is a fitting tribute to Lincoln, who was one of the most important figures in American history. Menna's design for the coin is a beautiful and accurate representation of Lincoln.

6. Composition

The 2009 Professional Life Penny is composed of copper-plated zinc. This is significant because it is the first time that the United States Mint has used this composition for a circulating coin. Copper-plated zinc is a durable and cost-effective material that is well-suited for coinage.

• Durability
  

  Copper-plated zinc is a very durable material. It is resistant to corrosion and wear, which makes it well-suited for coinage. The 2009 Professional Life Penny is expected to last for many years in circulation.

• Cost-effectiveness
  

  Copper-plated zinc is a relatively inexpensive material. This makes it a cost-effective choice for coinage. The United States Mint is able to produce the 2009 Professional Life Penny at a lower cost than it would be able to produce a coin made of another material, such as silver or gold.

• Appearance
  

  Copper-plated zinc has a similar appearance to copper. This makes the 2009 Professional Life Penny look like a traditional copper penny. However, the copper-plated zinc coin is actually more durable than a copper coin.

The use of copper-plated zinc in the 2009 Professional Life Penny is a significant development in the history of American coinage. This new composition is durable, cost-effective, and attractive. It is a testament to the United States Mint's commitment to producing high-quality coins.

7. Diameter

The diameter of the 2009 Professional Life Penny is 19.05 mm. This is significant because it is the standard diameter for all Lincoln cents. The diameter of a coin is important because it affects the coin's weight, thickness, and overall appearance.

• Weight
  

  The diameter of a coin affects its weight. A coin with a larger diameter will weigh more than a coin with a smaller diameter. The 2009 Professional Life Penny weighs 2.5 grams. This is the standard weight for all Lincoln cents.

• Thickness
  

  The diameter of a coin also affects its thickness. A coin with a larger diameter will be thicker than a coin with a smaller diameter. The 2009 Professional Life Penny is 1.52 mm thick. This is the standard thickness for all Lincoln cents.

• Appearance
  

  The diameter of a coin affects its overall appearance. A coin with a larger diameter will appear larger than a coin with a smaller diameter. The 2009 Professional Life Penny has a diameter of 19.05 mm. This gives it a classic and familiar appearance.

The diameter of the 2009 Professional Life Penny is an important factor that affects its weight, thickness, and overall appearance. The diameter of the coin is a key part of its design and contributes to its unique identity.

FAQs about the 2009 Professional Life Penny

The 2009 Professional Life Penny is a one-cent coin struck by the United States Mint in 2009. It was the fourth and final coin in the Lincoln Cent and Union Shield cent series, which began in 2005. Here are some frequently asked questions about the coin:

Question 1: What is the significance of the 2009 Professional Life Penny?

Answer: The 2009 Professional Life Penny is significant because it is the last coin in the Lincoln Cent and Union Shield cent series. It is also the first coin to feature the motto "E Pluribus Unum" on the reverse. The coin is also notable for its unique design, which was created by Richard Masters and sculpted by Joseph Menna.

Question 2: What is the composition of the 2009 Professional Life Penny?

Answer: The 2009 Professional Life Penny is composed of copper-plated zinc. This is significant because it is the first time that the United States Mint has used this composition for a circulating coin. Copper-plated zinc is a durable and cost-effective material that is well-suited for coinage.

Question 3: What is the diameter of the 2009 Professional Life Penny?

Answer: The diameter of the 2009 Professional Life Penny is 19.05 mm. This is significant because it is the standard diameter for all Lincoln cents. The diameter of a coin affects its weight, thickness, and overall appearance.

Question 4: Who designed and sculpted the 2009 Professional Life Penny?

Answer: The 2009 Professional Life Penny was designed by Richard Masters and sculpted by Joseph Menna. Masters is an American coin designer and sculptor. He is best known for his work on the 2009 Professional Life Penny. Menna is an American coin sculptor and engraver. He is best known for his work on the 2009 Professional Life Penny.

Question 5: Is the 2009 Professional Life Penny still in circulation?

Answer: Yes, the 2009 Professional Life Penny is still in circulation today. It is worth one cent.

These are just a few of the frequently asked questions about the 2009 Professional Life Penny. For more information, please visit the website of the United States Mint.

Transition to the next article section:

The 2009 Professional Life Penny is a significant coin in the history of the Lincoln Cent. It is a reminder of the country's history, values, and diversity. The coin is a fitting tribute to Abraham Lincoln, and it is a beautiful and durable example of American coinage.

Conclusion

The 2009 Professional Life Penny is a significant coin in the history of the Lincoln Cent. It is the last coin in the Lincoln Cent and Union Shield cent series, and it is the first coin to feature the motto "E Pluribus Unum" on the reverse. The coin is also notable for its unique design, which was created by Richard Masters and sculpted by Joseph Menna.

The 2009 Professional Life Penny is a reminder of the country's history, values, and diversity. The coin is a fitting tribute to Abraham Lincoln, and it is a beautiful and durable example of American coinage.