Ever wondered which president is featured on your cent? U.S. coins have been circulating since 1787. The first official ones were minted in 1793, marking over 230 years of history. Coins are essential when you need change for gas or target run. According to the United States Mint, over 13 billion coins are produced annually, making them a crucial part of the economy and everyday life.
But do you know these coins feature portraits of key American figures who shaped the nation? Each denomination carries distinct value and symbolism, from Abraham Lincoln on the penny to George Washington on the quarter. Read on to know about their denominations, types of coins in the United States and values.
What is a U.S. coin called?
A U.S. coin is metal currency issued by the United States Mint and serves as legal tender. There are 6 coins in circulation currently and each coin's name generally corresponds to its value relative to the dollar, such as a penny for one cent or a quarter for 25 cents. U.S. coins often display iconic phrases like “IN GOD WE TRUST” and “E PLURIBUS UNUM”.
Types of U.S. Coins: Who are Featured on them?
U.S. Coins are an important part of the United States currency system. There are 6 U.S. coins which are currently circulated. The U.S. Mint produces all of the coins in the United States. The six main circulating coins are:
| U.S. Coin Names | U.S. Coin Values | Person Featured | Year Introduced |
| Penny | 1¢ (i.e. 1 cent or $0.01) | A Penny features Abraham Lincoln who was the 16th U.S. President and served during the Civil War. | 1909 |
| Nickel | 5¢ or 5 cents | A Nickel features Thomas Jefferson, a founding father and the 3rd U.S. President. He wrote the Declaration of Independence. | 1938 |
| Dime | 10¢ or 10 cents | A Dime features Franklin D. Roosevelt. He was the 32nd U.S. President who led the country through the Great Depression and World War II. | 1946 |
| Quarter | 25¢ or 25 cents | A Quarter features George Washington, who was the first U.S. President. He was also the commander of the Continental Army. | 1932 |
| Half Dollar | 50¢ or 50 cents | Half Dollar features the 35th President of the United States, John F. Kennedy. | 1964 |
| Dollar Coin | $1 or 1 dollar | A Dollar coin features Sacagawea, who was a Shoshone woman. She was the guide and translator for the Lewis & Clark expedition across the American West. | 2000+ |
What was the First U.S. Coin?
The first official circulating U.S. coin was the Franklin Cent also known as the Fugio Cent. It was designed by Benjamin Franklin with a sundial on the obverse and a chain of 13 links on the reverse. In 1787, the Franklin cents were authorized by the Congress of the Confederation with the "Mind Your Business" motto featuring on these coins.
What is the Rarest U.S. Coin in History?
The rarest U.S. coin in history is the 1849 Double Eagle Gold Coin. Only one specimen exists, held at the Smithsonian Institution, making it the rarest and most valuable U.S. coin ever minted.
Read Other U.S. News and Stories Here:
List of 7 US Currency Denominations still in Circulation
Conclusion
U.S. coins tell stories of American history through the faces they bear, celebrating presidents and influential figures who contributed to the nation’s growth. Knowing the names, values, and people behind these coins helps deepen understanding of everyday money. Beyond their monetary purpose, these coins serve as historical tokens, circulating billions each year and linking citizens to their shared heritage.
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