Seldom Seen Selections: Unsurpassed Superb Gem 1916 D Lincoln Cent

Heritage Auctions - The 1916-D Lincoln cent claims a substantial mintage of nearly 36 million pieces, far outstripping the 1.1 million-piece mintage of the 1914-D, and expanding considerably on the 22 million-piece production total of the 1915-D. Consequently, the 1916-D is not difficult to locate in circulated grades today, and even lower Mint State specimens are found with a little patience, but coins with full, original red color are quite elusive. Although a new master die was introduced during the year, improving the striking characteristics of some examples, David Lange notes that the coins with original color are usually seen with weaker strikes. For some reason, the coins with sharp details are usually found with brown surfaces.



In our February 4 - 7 Long Beach Expo US coins Signature Auction, we are happy to offer an exception to the rule. Shimmering original orange-copper surfaces provide this exceptional Superb Gem cent with exceptional visual appeal. The design elements exhibit sharp definition in most areas, with only a touch of softness on the AM in AMERICA. The few marks present on this example are minuscule and hard to detect, even with a loupe. The reverse reveals a couple of attractive splashes of bluish-green color. Very few hints of carbon are present, all pinpoint in size. This coin is tied with one other specimen for finest certified at PCGS, while NGC has graded no Red examples finer than MS66.

A delightful example, with unsurpassed visual appeal and the highest available technical quality, this piece will make a wonderful addition to an advanced collection or Registry Set.