The US 1968 Cent was designed by Frank Gasparro and introduced during a period of change in the U.S. economy. In response to the rising cost of copper, the cent was struck in a copper-plated zinc composition rather than solid copper. This shift was significant as it marked the beginning of cost-saving measures in coin production during the 1960s.
The US 1968 Cent also reflected the socio-political climate of the era. With inflation increasing, the coins new design, featuring Abraham Lincolns portrait, remained a symbol of national unity while adapting to economic pressures. The move to a cheaper metal for the 1968 Cent was an effort to balance production costs with the integrity of U.S. currency.