1910 Proof Lincoln Wheat Cent

The 1910 proof Lincoln cent was struck in a mintage of approximately 4,118 proofs. The early Lincoln cent proofs (1909-1916) were produced using a matte or satin finish rather than the brilliant mirror finish that would become standard when proof production resumed in 1936. The matte proofs have a granular, slightly textured surface that is quite different from the sharp reflectivity of later proofs. They were controversial at the time, and some collectors preferred the old brilliant proof style.

Matte proof Lincoln cents from 1909-1916 are collected as a distinct subtype. The finish requires authentication, because heavily cleaned or processed circulation strikes can superficially resemble the matte proof texture. Certification by a major grading service is important for confirming genuine proof status on these early issues.