The 1959 Small Cents Lincoln Memorial Reverse CACG PR 67 RD is an exceptional piece of American numismatic history that represents a pivotal moment in the evolution of U.S. coinage. This proof coin, graded PR 67 Red (RD) by CACG, showcases the distinctive Memorial Reverse design that defined the Lincoln cent from 1959 through 2008. For serious collectors and investors alike, this coin represents both historical significance and investment potential.

Product Overview

This 1959 Lincoln cent is a premium proof specimen, distinguished by its brilliant red coloration and superior strike quality. The PR 67 grade indicates a nearly perfect coin with only minor imperfections visible under magnification. As a proof coin from the final year of the iconic Memorial Reverse design's earliest production, this piece captures a moment of American numismatic importance that spans nearly five decades of continuous coinage.

Coin Specifications

• Year of Issue: 1959
• Denomination: One Cent
• Composition: 95% Copper, 5% Zinc
• Diameter: 19.05 mm
• Thickness: 1.52 mm
• Weight: 3.11 grams
• Obverse Design: Lincoln Wheat Head (designed by Victor D. Brenner)
• Reverse Design: Lincoln Memorial (designed by Frank Gasparro)
• Grade: PR 67 RD (Proof 67 Red)
• Grading Service: CACG (Certified American Grading Company)
• Color Designation: RD (Red) - Full original copper color
• Strike Quality: Exceptional with full details
• Luster: Pristine proof finish with characteristic reflective fields

Historical Significance

The year 1959 marks a revolutionary moment in American coinage history. This was the year the U.S. Mint transitioned the reverse design of the Lincoln cent from the traditional Wheat Ears design—which had graced the coin since 1909—to the Lincoln Memorial design. This change commemorated the 150th anniversary of Abraham Lincoln's birth and represented the most significant redesign of the cent in half a century.

President Abraham Lincoln remains one of the most honored figures in American history, and the Lincoln cent has been a staple of U.S. currency since 1909. The introduction of the Memorial Reverse was a fitting tribute to one of America's greatest presidents. The Lincoln Memorial itself had been completed just decades earlier in 1922, making this design choice particularly poignant and historically resonant.

The Memorial Reverse Design

Designer Frank Gasparro's Lincoln Memorial reverse is a masterpiece of numismatic artistry. The design features a detailed representation of the Lincoln Memorial with four columns prominent on the facade, set within a circular boundary. The inscription "E PLURIBUS UNUM" arcs across the upper portion, while "ONE CENT" is positioned at the bottom. The design captures the grandeur and significance of this iconic Washington D.C. monument with remarkable precision for such a small denomination.

The Memorial design would remain on U.S. cents for nearly 50 years, from 1959 through 2008, making it one of the longest-running reverse designs in U.S. coinage. This longevity speaks to both its aesthetic appeal and historical importance. Collectors who recognize the significance of this design consider early years like 1959 particularly valuable.

Understanding the PR 67 Grade

The PR 67 RD grade represents an exceptionally high quality coin. In the Sheldon Scale used by professional grading services, a score of 67 places this coin in the "superb gem proof" category. The "RD" designation indicates that the coin retains its full original red copper color, which is increasingly rare in coins of this age. Most older copper cents tend to oxidize to brown or other colors over time, making coins that retain their original red designation particularly desirable to collectors.

This grade suggests the coin has been carefully preserved since its minting, protected from environmental factors that typically cause copper oxidation. The coin shows only light handling marks and perhaps a few minor contact marks, visible only under magnification. The proof finish remains intact with its characteristic mirror-like fields and frosted design elements.

Why Choose a 1959 Proof Lincoln Memorial Cent?

Historical Transitional Piece: This coin marks the transition from the Wheat Reverse to the Memorial Reverse, making it historically significant for any serious collection.

Premium Quality Proof Coin: Proof coins represent the highest quality specimens produced by the U.S. Mint each year, crafted specifically for collectors who demand excellence.

Superior Grading Authority: CACG (Certified American Grading Company) is a respected and independent grading service known for consistent and conservative grading standards.

Exceptional Preservation: The PR 67 grade combined with the Red designation indicates this coin has been exceptionally well preserved for over 60 years.

Strong Collector Demand: Early years of the Memorial Reverse design command premium prices in the collector market, particularly in higher grades.

Investment Potential

Lincoln cents remain among the most collected coins in the United States, with passionate collectors actively seeking high-grade specimens from significant years. The 1959 proof penny, being the first year of the Memorial Reverse design, holds particular appeal. As supplies of premium-grade examples become increasingly scarce due to normal circulation and environmental degradation, the value of well-preserved specimens continues to appreciate.

The proof format adds additional value compared to circulation strikes, as far fewer proof coins were produced for collectors. The combination of year, design, grade, and color makes this particular coin attractive to both collectors building comprehensive sets and investors seeking numismatic assets with strong historical pedigree.

Collectible Appeal

This 1959 Small Cents Lincoln Memorial Reverse CACG PR 67 RD coin appeals to multiple collector categories: those assembling complete Memorial Reverse type sets, date collectors seeking important first-year examples, grade-conscious collectors pursuing the finest surviving specimens, and color enthusiasts who specifically seek red copper preservation. This crossover appeal contributes to consistent demand and stability in the collector market.

The professional certification by CACG provides authentication and grading consistency, allowing collectors and investors to purchase with confidence. The holder is tamper-evident and protects the coin from further environmental exposure while allowing complete visibility of this beautiful specimen.

Final Thoughts

The 1959 Small Cents Lincoln Memorial Reverse CACG PR 67 RD represents far more than face value. It embodies American history, numismatic artistry, and the dedication of collectors who preserve these treasures for future generations. Whether you're a serious numismatist, a history enthusiast, or an investor seeking tangible assets with enduring appeal, this exceptional proof coin deserves consideration for your collection.