New Lincoln
Just when you think it is safe to relax about the 2009 Lincoln cents, word comes that it is very difficult to get examples of the P-mint Presidency coin through the nation’s banking system.
Indiana dealer Julian Jarvis, who handles rolls and bag quantities, told “Coin Chat Radio” Dec. 21 that he expects another wave of promotions for the four-design set in the coming year, and this is only adding to the strain.
The Denver version of the fourth cent design of 2009 is less of a challenge to acquire through banking channels than the “P,” he said.
He made an interesting point when he said that in his experience there are people who still do not know that there were commemorative cents produced in 2009 rather than the standard Memorial reverse coin. He cited a visitor to his office who was introduced to the coins for the first time recently.
This level of ignorance of the special cent program will help preserve the novelty of the coins among the general public for a far longer period than if they had been easy to obtain at banks.
An ironic note struck by Jarvis is that the Mint’s massive efforts to assure the banking system had plenty of the third design might now be standing in the way of distribution of the fourth. Cent supplies are so backed up again, apparently, that banks don’t need fresh deliveries and therefore aren’t ordering any, Jarvis said.
More Resources:
• 2010 U.S. Coin Digest, The Complete Guide to Current Market Values, 8th ed.
• State Quarters Deluxe Folder By Warmans
• Standard Guide to Small-Size U.S. Paper Money, 1928 to Date
