Design Features: The 1918 Lincoln Cent features a portrait of President Abraham Lincoln on the obverse, designed by Victor David Brenner.
Mintmark Significance: The 1918 Lincoln Cent was minted in both Philadelphia (no mintmark) and San Francisco ("S"). The mintmark on the coin helps collectors determine its origin, which can impact its rarity and value.
Mintage Numbers: The 1918 Philadelphia mint produced over 309 million coins, while the San Francisco mint produced about 1.2 million.
While not a "key date" in terms of rarity, the 1918 Lincoln Cent is part of the widely collected Wheat Cent series, making it an important coin for collectors looking to complete their sets.
Varieties and Errors: Some 1918 Lincoln Cents show die varieties or minting errors, such as doubling in the inscriptions or other anomalies.
Value Above Face Value: The 1918 Lincoln Cent, while not as rare as some other wheat cents, can still be worth far above its face value, particularly in high-grade condition or if it displays mint errors.
Historical Context: The 1918 cent was minted during World War I, a period of great historical significance. This adds to the coin’s appeal for collectors who appreciate the historical context behind their numismatic acquisitions.
Preservation and Storage: To preserve the 1918 Lincoln Cent's condition, it's important to store it properly—preferably in a protective holder like a 2x2 holder or capsule to prevent damage from handling or environmental factors.