1913 1C, BN (Proof)

The 1913 Lincoln Cent Matte Proof

As is the case with most Lincoln Cent Matte Proofs, the United States Mint has presented multiple positions on the issue's total mintage. The Mint's internal record-keeping was inconsistent, leading to a variety of reported figures. For years, PCGS published the mintage as 2,848, relying on the figure in Walter Breen's Encyclopedia of United States and Colonial Proof Coins. I have adopted a slightly higher figure, drawing from a more comprehensive account of accepted coins found in one of two Medal and Proof books maintained by the Mint's Medal Department.

Even here, some vagueness persists, as the March 5 and March 20 entries include nickels as well. However, assuming the "number accepted" column is accurate, the correct mintage for the 1913 Lincoln Cent Matte Proof (BN #3315) is 2,983.

Die Diagnostics

Two die pairs have been identified for the 1913 Lincoln Cent Matte Proof. The first obverse shows a hooked shape die scratch scratch left of the I in IN.

The reverse die is the same one used to strike all Lincoln Cent Matte Proofs since 1910; the 1914 issue marked the final deployment of this die. A scratch at the bottom of the M in UNUM can be seen on all 1910–1914 Proofs.

Collecting the 1914 Lincoln Cent Matte Proof

With the exception of the 1909 without V.D.B. Matte Proof (BN #3303), the 1913 Lincoln Cent Matte Proof is the most common of the Lincoln Matte Proofs in original Red. Examples are available in some quantity in grades from PCGS PR65RD to PCGS PR67RD. Examples are also plentiful in Red and Brown and Brown color designations. Both categories are known for specimens that exhibit a wide range of toning, from aubergine and ice blue to vibrant magenta and peacock patination. Red examples run the gamut as well: some display a honey or cognac hue, while others retain much—though usually not all—of the coin's original, fiery luster.

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