Your Ultimate Beginner’s Guide to Understanding Post A Circulated Lincoln Cents

Ever found a penny in your change and wondered about its story? You’re not alone! This beginner’s guide will walk you through everything about Post A circulated Lincoln cents—no prior coin knowledge needed. Whether you’re starting a coin collection or just curious, you’ll learn to spot, value, and appreciate these little pieces of history by the end.

What Exactly Is a Post A Circulated Lincoln Cent?

Let’s break this down simply: “Post A” refers to Lincoln pennies made after major design changes (like the 2010 Union Shield update). “Circulated” means they’ve been used in everyday transactions—you might have one in your pocket right now! These coins aren’t just spare change; they’re tiny time capsules that have passed through countless hands.

A Quick Trip Through Lincoln Penny History

First minted in 1909 for Lincoln’s 100th birthday, these pennies have had four main looks:

• 1909–1958: Classic “Wheat Ears” back
• 1959–2008: Lincoln Memorial reverse
• 2009: Special birthday designs (4 different backs!)
• 2010–present: Modern Union Shield

Here’s what beginners should know: “Post A” usually means 2010 or newer pennies with the shield design, but sometimes includes the special 2009 coins. The exact meaning depends on which coin collector you ask!

What Does “Circulated” Really Mean?

Circulated coins show honest wear—light scratches, faded details, maybe even a dark patina. Unlike pristine uncirculated coins (which never left the Mint), these have real-world stories. Graders use a 1-70 number system where:

VF35 (Very Fine) means your penny is worn but still clearly shows Lincoln’s beard and the shield details. It’s the sweet spot for new collectors—affordable but still detailed enough to enjoy.

Your First Penny Hunt: How to Spot Post A Lincoln Cents

Ready to play detective? Here’s how to identify these modern pennies:

1. Check the Date and Mint Mark

Look at the front (heads side):

• 2010 or newer: Likely a Post A Union Shield penny
• 2009: Special birthday designs (check the back!)

The tiny letter under the date tells where it was made:

• No letter: Philadelphia
• D: Denver
• S: San Francisco (less common)

2. Examine the Back Design

Flip it over! Post A pennies have either:

• 2009: One of four special backs showing Lincoln’s life stages
• 2010+: The Union Shield with 13 vertical stripes

Pro tip: Run your finger over the shield. If you feel strong ridges around the stripes and sharp lettering, you’ve got a well-preserved Post A cent.

3. Test the Weight (Bonus Level!)

Pennies changed metals in 1982:

• Pre-1982: Heavy copper (3.11 grams)
• Post-1982: Lightweight zinc (2.5 grams)

Use a kitchen scale to check. Modern Post A coins will feel noticeably lighter than older pennies.

Starting Your Collection: Simple & Affordable

You don’t need rare coins or big money to begin. Here’s how to start strong:

Step 1: Pick Your Starting Point

Choose one simple goal:

• Date collection: One penny from each year since 2010
• Mint mark hunt: Find Philadelphia (no mark) and Denver (D) coins
• 2009 specials: Collect all four birthday designs

Start with loose change! I found my first 2009 “Formative Years” penny in a grocery store return.

Step 2: Where to Find These Pennies

Treasure hunt spots:

• Your pocket change: Check every penny!
• Bank rolls: Ask for $1 in pennies (4 rolls)
• Local coin shops: Many sell “starter bags” for $5

Remember: Post A circulated pennies should cost 1¢ to 25¢ each unless they’re rare errors.

Step 3: Store Them Right

Keep your finds safe with:

• Cardboard 2×2 holders: (50¢ each at craft stores)
• Coin albums: Whitman folders ($10-15)

Never clean coins—it destroys their value! Just keep them dry and away from moisture.

Busting 4 Common Penny Myths

Let’s clear up confusion new collectors often face:

Myth 1: “All New Pennies Are Valuable”

Truth: Most Post A circulated pennies are worth exactly 1¢. Exceptions are rare errors like the 2019-W penny (made for collectors) or dramatic doubled dies.

Myth 2: “Worn Coins Are Junk”

Truth: Circulated pennies have character! That 2015-D with slight wear? It might have traveled across the country before reaching you.

Myth 3: “You Need Fancy Tools”

Truth: Start with a $5 magnifier and free coin app. Upgrade to a $20 scale later if you get serious.

Myth 4: “2009 Pennies Are All Special”

Truth: Only the four reverse designs are collectible. Regular 2009 pennies with the Lincoln Memorial aren’t rare.

Level Up: Finding Hidden Treasure

Once you’ve mastered basics, watch for:

Error Coins

• Doubled dies: Letters look blurry or shadowed
• Off-center strikes: Designs are crooked
• Cracks: Thin raised lines on the surface

Example: A 2014 doubled die penny sold for $252—found in someone’s spare change!

When to Get Coins Graded

Consider professional grading if you find:

• Rare mint marks (like 2019-W)
• Clear error coins
• Unusually sharp details for a circulated penny

Services like PCGS charge $25-50 per coin but add value for rare finds.

Ready to Begin Your Penny Adventure?

You’re now equipped to:

• Spot Post A Lincoln cents in your change
• Start a meaningful collection for less than $10
• Avoid common beginner mistakes
• Recognize potential hidden treasures

The best part? Your collection tells your story. Maybe you’ll specialize in Denver-minted shield cents, or hunt for elusive 2009 designs. Grab a coin jar, start checking dates, and remember—every great collection began with a single penny. Your first exciting find could be in your pocket right now!

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