2009-D Formative Years, Copper

The 2009-D Formative Years copper cent was struck at the Denver Mint in the 95% copper satin finish composition. Charles Vickers designed the reverse, sculpted by Jim Licaretz, showing a young Abraham Lincoln reading while seated on a log. The image represents Lincoln's years in Indiana from 1816 to 1830, a period that shaped his character and ambitions. The Lincoln family carved a homestead out of dense forest near Little Pigeon Creek in Spencer County, and young Abraham helped his father clear land, split rails, and build fences.

Lincoln grew tall and strong, reportedly able to sink an axe deeper into wood than any man in the county. But his physical strength was matched by an unusual intellect. He devoured every book he could find, including the Bible, Aesop's Fables, Robinson Crusoe, Pilgrim's Progress, and a biography of George Washington. Neighbors remembered him reading at every opportunity, even propping a book on the end of his plow. The Denver Mint's satin finish copper specimens were available only through the 2009 Uncirculated Mint Set, giving them a built-in scarcity compared to the billions of zinc cents produced for circulation. The warm copper color of these coins develops an attractive natural patina over time that differs from the duller toning of zinc specimens.