1974-D 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. Although the U.S. Mint has no record of 1974 aluminum cents’ being produced at the Denver Mint, apparently a small number were struck there, as an example of the 1974-D aluminum cent surfaced in San Diego in 2015. The owner’s father was a former deputy superintendent of the Denver Mint. The coin was certified as genuine by PCGS and consigned to auction. This basically forced the Mint’s hand, as the coin is officially illegal to own for private citizens. The U.S. Mint filed legal action against the owners, and the coin was confiscated. 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.