The U.S. Mint began issuing one-cent coins in 1787. The Fugio cent was designed by Benjamin Franklin. On one side, it read “Mind Your Business” and the other “We Are One.” This coin was larger than today’s penny and made of 100% copper. In 1792, the United States Mint was created. The first coins struck by the new mint were called Chain cents or Flowing Hair Chain Cents by collectors today. On one side of the coin were 13 links of chain representing the 13 colonies. On the other side was a woman with flowing hair, known as Liberty. The US Mint made some changes to the cent. They made it smaller to make it less expensive and easier to handle. In 1856, they produced the Flying Eagle cent with a wreath on the reverse side. This coin was soon replaced with the Indian Head cent which quickly became popular and remained in circulation for decades. Today’s penny is made of copper and zinc, and has Abraham Lincoln on it. From 1959 to 2008, it had the Lincoln Memorial. In 2009, when Lincoln's birthday was celebrated, it featured four different images of him from his lifetime. A new design in 2010 features the Union Shield.    

National One Cent Day is celebrated on April 1 of every year

We have been unable thus far to find the creator of this national day, but we will be sure to keep you posted.