Lincoln Rail Splitter Cents

[ 1 ] “In the fall of 1816, Thomas and Nancy Lincoln left Kentucky for southern Indiana, settling in Spencer County. As he grew older, young Abraham became skilled at using a plow and, especially, an axe. Although the demands of frontier life left little time for formal schooling, his parents instilled in him a love for books and Abraham educated himself by reading such works as Life of Washington, The Autobiography of Benjamin Franklin, Robinson Crusoe, and 1001 Arabian Nights, all by the age of 11. He could often be seen carrying a book along with his axe. In October 1818, the family suffered a terrible tragedy when Nancy died from drinking contaminated cow's milk. For Abraham, whose mother had encouraged him to read and explore the world through books, it was a devastating blow. Thomas later married Sarah Bush Johnston, a kind stepmother who helped raise Abraham as her own. The coin's design depicts a young Lincoln reading while taking a break from working as a rail splitter in Indiana.” — usmint.gov lesson plan for teachers

[ 2 ] “Charles Vickers was born and raised in Northeast Texas. After a tour of duty with the 101st Airborne Division, he went to New York to study at the Art Students League and Frank Reilly School of Art. He also attended the Pratt Institute and the School of Visual Arts. In 1976, Charles moved to Pennsylvania and began a successful career at the Franklin Mint. Since leaving as a Senior Sculptor in 1985 and establishing his own studio, Charles’ design work has earned him recognition throughout the world and he has been commissioned to work on many private collections. Charles joined the United States Mint’s sculptor-engraving staff in December 2003. Most of his work has been in bas-relief; medals, coins and design . . .” — Charles L. Vickers, Sculptor-Engraver, United States Mint, usmint.gov (Photo of Charles Vickers is a United States Mint image.)