So what happened to the striking of the 2009 cent using the same 1909 design and metal composition?
Or did I miss something....

This design change for the Presidential Dollars ruins the design.  The fact this was done because a few people became upset because a few coins made it through without "In God We Trust" inscribed on the edge seems like overkill.  Frankly had they moved the inscription to the reverse it would have been a bit more palatable.  However, our rulers felt otherwise and have screwed up what was a reasonably good design.

So much for design by committee.

It would only make sense that the first 2009 cent look exactly like the 1909
cent with the exception of the date. As far as the change on the edge lettering of the 2009 Presidential Dollars goes I don't feel that edge lettering of any type is a good idea. Additionally, I wouldn't be upset if the "In god we trust" was taken completely off the coins. It doesn't belong there in the first place. But what we have now is a design staff at the mint that just isn't in touch with those who collect coins and who bend to the wishes of religious fanatics. To be honest the mint has gone absolutely crazy with new designs, series, etc. They no longer make money for circulation. They make money for profit. I try to keep up with everything coming out each year (with the exception of gold that is) and can no longer afford to do so. Now they are talking state park quarters, planet dollars, civil rights leaders and don't get me startered on position A and B, satin finish and errors of the Presidential dollar series. Someone needs to clean house at he mint in my opinion.