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U.S. Mint launches Lincoln penny series

WASHINGTON, Feb. 12 (UPI) -- The U.S. Mint is celebrating the 200th anniversary of President Abraham Lincoln's birth with four new pennies, the first one in circulation Thursday.

Like the pennies now in circulation, the new ones will have a Lincoln profile on the heads side, the Mint said. The first penny to be issued shows a log cabin on the reverse, suggesting Lincoln's birthplace in Kentucky.

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The first Lincoln penny was issued in 1909 on the 100th anniversary of his birth. The most recent new design was 50 years ago.

The new pennies, to be issued at three-month intervals will show scenes from Lincoln's boyhood in Indiana, his life as a lawyer and politician in Illinois and his presidency.

"The coin is a tribute to a humble man who rose to great heights living by principles of honesty, integrity and loyalty, principles that never go out of fashion," said Andy Brunhart, deputy director of the U.S. Mint. "More importantly, Americans will forever hold dear Lincoln's legacy -- an enduring Nation, united in the pursuit of equality for all."

Brunhart and Kentucky Gov. Steven L. Beshear launched the new penny in the LaRue County High School gym.

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