1974 1c Aluminum MS RD

The 1974 aluminum cent has been an intriguing numismatic rarity since it was produced in the early 1970s. The coin’s interesting story is closely related to those of the 1943 copper cent (which it was proposed to replace) and the 1933.In 2001, an example of the 1974 aluminum cent surfaced and was attributed to U.S. Capitol police officer Albert Toven. He claimed the coin had been dropped by an unnamed congressman who, thinking the coin was a dime, told Officer Toven to keep it. To date, no government agency has attempted to confiscate the coin. The ultimate fate of the 1974 aluminum cent mentioned above remains in question. Luckily, one example of the Philadelphia issue was donated to the Smithsonian’s National Numismatic Collection and can now be seen on display in Washington, D.C.

Obverse Description

Bust of Abraham Lincoln framed by IN GOD WE TRUST on the top periphery. The word LIBERTY to the left of the portait and the date postioned on the right side.

Reverse Description

Lincoln memorial building centered with words ONE CENT, UNITED STATES OF AMERICA on top and bottom periphery. E PLURIBUS UNUM centered above the top of the memorial.