1916 Lincoln proofs are very scarce, boasting the lowest mintage of all 1909-1916 matte proofs. it is one of the toughest early Lincoln cents to find, and those that surface often have spotting or uneven color. Collectors pay large premiums for nice examples with excellent eye appeal and few to no spots. The 1916 matte proof is popular particularly with Lincoln cent enthusiasts, many of whom assemble registry sets and seek top examples of these early proofs. The 1916 proof cents mark the last regular-issue proofs for a generation.