Among all the Lincoln Wheat pennies ever produced, the 1909-S VDB Lincoln cent stands out as one of the rarest and most sought-after coins. It marks the first year of the Lincoln cent series and was minted in limited numbers, making it a dream find for any coin collector.
Let’s look into what makes this coin so special, how to spot fakes, and just how valuable it can be.
Why It’s Special
The 1909-S VDB penny was minted in San Francisco, which explains the “S” mint mark. The “VDB” represents the initials of Victor David Brenner, the designer of the coin. His initials were placed at the bottom of the reverse side of the penny.
Only around 484,000 of these coins were made with both the “S” mint mark and the VDB initials. To put that into perspective, most modern pennies are minted in the hundreds of millions. This incredibly low production number is why this coin is so prized today.
If you are building a Lincoln Wheat cent set, the 1909-S VDB is often considered the ultimate key coin you need to find.
Beware of Fakes
Because of its high value and iconic status, the 1909-S VDB penny has been counterfeited many times. If you think you’ve found one, getting it authenticated is critical.
Look out for:
- Added mint marks: Some counterfeiters add an “S” to regular 1909 pennies.
- Poorly shaped letters: Authentic VDB initials have a very specific style and placement.
- Surface details: Real coins will have crisp, sharp features, not blurry or uneven ones.
For full peace of mind, send it to a professional grading service like PCGS (Professional Coin Grading Service) or NGC (Numismatic Guaranty Corporation).
Value
The value of a 1909-S VDB penny depends largely on its condition. Here’s a rough guide:
| Condition | Estimated Value |
|---|---|
| Good (G-4) | $700–$1,200 |
| Fine (F-12) | $1,500–$2,000 |
| Extremely Fine (EF-40) | $2,800–$3,500 |
| About Uncirculated (AU-50) | $4,500–$6,000 |
| Mint State (MS-60 or higher) | $7,000 and up |
In April 2022, a 1909-S VDB Lincoln cent graded MS67RD (meaning mint state and red in color) sold for a jaw-dropping $168,000 at auction.
Higher grades and bright red original surfaces fetch the highest prices. Even heavily circulated coins can sell for several hundred dollars.
Tips
If you think you have a 1909-S VDB:
- Handle it carefully by the edges only.
- Avoid cleaning the coin—it can ruin its value.
- Take it to a trusted dealer or send it to a grading service.
A real 1909-S VDB could be worth more than a brand-new car, and in some cases, even as much as a small house.
FAQs
What does the VDB stand for on the 1909 penny?
It stands for Victor David Brenner, the coin’s designer.
How many 1909-S VDB pennies were made?
Only about 484,000 were minted.
How much is a 1909-S VDB penny worth?
Anywhere from $700 to over $168,000 depending on condition.
How can I tell if my 1909-S VDB is real?
Have it authenticated by PCGS or NGC.
Should I clean a 1909-S VDB penny?
No, cleaning can lower its value significantly.
