After the coin was released, many protested that even the initials were conspicuous and detracted from the design. Because the coin was in great demand, and due to the fact that to make a change would have required halting production, the decision was made to eliminate the initials entirely. They were restored in 1918, and are to be found in minute form on the rim, just under the shoulder of Lincoln. More cents are produced than any other denomination, which makes the Lincoln piece a familiar item on the national scene. In its life span the little bronze coin has weathered two world conflicts, one of which was to change it materially.
Metals play a vital part in any war effort.
At the time of World War II the cent was composed of 95 per cent copper and 5 percent tin and zinc. These metals were denied the Mint for the duration of the emergency, making it necessary to seek a substitute. After much deliberation, even including consideration of plastics, zinc-coated steel was chosen as the best in a limited range of suitable materials. All Rights Reserved 1997.