Collector reference
Design types
Design types name the specific engraving on each side of a Lincoln cent — obverse design types (ODT) and reverse design types (RDT). They are separate from mint mark types and from year-specific design varieties. Browse by side, then open a type for identification notes, plate photos, and year scopes.
Design types identify distinct engraved designs. When differing designs create collectible alternatives within the same production context, they may also form design varieties. Explore Lincoln Cent Design Varieties.
Obverse design types (ODT)
This is believed to be an all-inclusive list containing every re-engraving of the Lincoln cent obverse design that involved a true change in the design, and not just an enhancement or retooling. Only design changes are involved that required a complete re-engraving of the design and not simple retooling or enhancements to an existing design to help strengthen details. It must be understood that up until the master hubs were created by computer, each one was created with the 19 of the date intct as a part of the design - so every time that would change, it is considered a new design. 1930 and 1934 are examples of instances where only the 19 of the date changed significantly, thus are considred different obverse design types.
Reverse design types (RDT)
The changes in the Lincoln cent design shown below are included in this study of the series as a matter of detail, and little more of substantial collector value. Many of the design changes shown here are but one per issue (the design remained the same throughout a given year), and are a matter of academics in listing (or knowing about) them. However, in a few cases, the design was changed mid-year or by accident (during design transition), thus creating a variety within the issue. These are mentioned in more detail where they have a marked difference in value or collector interest because of the change. This list involves the Lincoln cent reverse design through its 117 years of use. Every design change is included in this list where details change to the extent that the design has to be an re-engraving from scratch. This list does not include simple retooling or enhancements that could have been performed on the then-current master giving a slightly different appearance.