2009-P $1 Abraham Lincoln Silver Commem – BU

On a cold February morning in 2009, numismatists and history enthusiasts alike waited with anticipation as the United States Mint released a coin destined to become an instant classic: the Abraham Lincoln Silver Commemorative—issued to honor the bicentennial of Lincoln’s birth. Just as Lincoln’s words at Gettysburg reverberated through the ages, so too did this release echo with national pride and historical weight. The coin’s inception, authorized by Public Law 109-285, recognized a crucial moment in American history—the birth of a statesman whose vision would redefine the nation.

The bicentennial commemoration came at a pivotal juncture: 200 years since Lincoln’s birth, a period marked by renewed interest in Civil War history and Lincolniana. The coin not only paid homage to the 16th president’s legacy but also coincided with the United States Mint’s first redesign of the Lincoln cent in decades, underscoring Lincoln’s enduring symbolism in American culture. Collectors saw its release as a rare opportunity: within weeks, the entire mintage was spoken for, a testament to the powerful connection between national memory and numismatics.

Abraham Lincoln remains one of history’s most studied and revered leaders, celebrated not only for his leadership during the Civil War but for his unwavering belief in human equality. His Gettysburg Address, immortalized in stone and speech, continues to serve as a touchstone of American values. This commemorative coin, strikingly, carries the spirit of this speech—melding two centuries of memory into a single, tangible artifact.

The Philadelphia Mint’s role in the coin’s production evokes another historical layer: as the cradle of American numismatics, the Mint’s pedigree enhances the coin’s prestige. The collaboration of distinguished designers—Justin Kunz, Don Everhart II, and Phebe Hemphill—further enriches its artistic significance, infusing the piece with both tradition and contemporary artistry.

Today, this commemorative dollar stands as a bridge between past and present—a silver tribute to the man who steered a fractured nation towards unity. For collectors, it is not simply a keepsake, but a vessel of history: a rare chance to hold Lincoln’s legacy in the palm of one’s hand, cast in precious metal and echoing with the ideals that shaped a nation.

Design Features

The obverse of the coin features a powerful, close-up portrait of Abraham Lincoln, masterfully rendered by artist Justin Kunz and engraver Don Everhart II. This refined image captures the thoughtful gravitas of the president, its inspiration drawn from Daniel Chester French’s iconic statue within the Lincoln Memorial. Lincoln’s visage emerges with remarkable clarity, inviting reflection on his enduring legacy and character. The legend “ABRAHAM LINCOLN,” the dual years “1809–2009,” and the inscriptions “IN GOD WE TRUST” and “LIBERTY” complete the stately composition.

The reverse, designed and sculpted by Phebe Hemphill, pays homage to Lincoln’s literary genius by presenting the final 43 words of the Gettysburg Address—etched in elegant script across an open parchment, symbolizing the lasting power of the written word in shaping democratic ideals. Below, Lincoln’s signature adds a personal flourish, while the surrounding legends “UNITED STATES OF AMERICA,” “ONE DOLLAR,” and “E PLURIBUS UNUM” reinforce the coin’s stature as legal tender and a piece of historical art.

Product Highlights

• Metal Type: SILVER – Hedge
• Purity: 0.9
• Weight: 0.7734 oz
• Manufacturer: United States Mint
• Mint Mark: P – Philadelphia
• IRA Eligible: No
• Obverse: Features an elegant portrait of Abraham Lincoln, inspired by the famed Lincoln Memorial statue, encircled by commemorative inscriptions.
• Reverse: Showcases the closing 43 words of the Gettysburg Address inscribed on a parchment, accompanied by Lincoln’s signature and national emblems.

Investment Appeal

The 2009-P $1 Abraham Lincoln Silver Commemorative is a compelling addition to any collection or portfolio. Struck in 90% silver with a substantial weight of 0.7734 troy ounces, it offers intrinsic value supported by precious metal content. Its mintage was strictly limited, enhancing its scarcity and long-term desirability among numismatists. The coin’s instant sellout upon release and the enduring demand for Lincoln memorabilia further bolster its liquidity and collectible appeal. With artistry from celebrated Mint designers and a direct connection to one of America’s foundational presidencies, this commemorative stands out both for its tangible silver value and its irreplaceable place in American history.