Rare 1909-S VDB Lincoln Cent: The 1909-S VDB Lincoln Cent is one of the most coveted and valuable coins in American numismatic history. Known for its scarcity and historical importance, this penny has fetched prices exceeding $100,000 at auction. But what if we told you it might be sitting in your coin jar right now?
Whether you’re a curious collector or someone stumbling upon an old coin stash, this guide will help you identify a genuine 1909-S VDB Lincoln Cent, understand its value, and know what to do if you find one.
Rare 1909-S VDB Lincoln Cent
| Feature | Details |
|---|---|
| Coin Name | 1909-S VDB Lincoln Wheat Cent |
| Minted At | San Francisco Mint (“S” mintmark) |
| Designer Initials | V.D.B. (Victor David Brenner) on reverse bottom center |
| Estimated Value | $909 in average circulated condition to over $100,000 in Mint State |
| Official Grading Services | PCGS, NGC |
| Key Identifier | “1909” date, “S” mintmark, and “V.D.B.” initials on reverse |
The 1909-S VDB Lincoln Cent is more than just a coin—it’s a piece of American history and a potential treasure worth thousands. With the right knowledge and tools, you can identify a real one and avoid falling for fakes. Whether you’re a collector or just lucky, finding one of these pennies could be a life-changing moment.
Why the 1909-S VDB Penny Is So Rare
When the Lincoln cent was first issued in 1909, it marked the centennial of Abraham Lincoln’s birth. Designed by Victor David Brenner, the coin included his initials “V.D.B.” prominently on the reverse. However, public backlash over the large initials led the U.S. Mint to quickly remove them.
Only 484,000 coins with both the “S” mintmark (San Francisco) and “V.D.B.” initials were struck before the change—making it the rarest version of the 1909 penny.
Rare 1909-S VDB Lincoln Cent: How to Identify a Real 1909-S VDB Lincoln Cent
1. Check the Date and Mint Mark
Look at the front (obverse) of the coin:
- The date should read “1909.”
- Just below the date, there should be a small “S” indicating it was minted in San Francisco.
2. Flip to the Reverse Side
At the bottom center, between the wheat stalks:
- Look for the designer’s initials: “V.D.B.”
3. Analyze the Mint Mark Position
Experts recognize four authentic positions of the “S” mintmark. It’s typically located just below and slightly to the right of the last digit in the date. Be cautious of added or altered mintmarks.
4. Understand the Wheat Design
The coin should feature the classic Wheat Ears reverse design, used from 1909–1958.
Avoiding Fakes: Common Counterfeit Tricks
Due to its value, the 1909-S VDB is one of the most counterfeited U.S. coins. Here are common red flags:
Added Mint Marks
Some counterfeiters take a regular 1909 VDB (made in Philadelphia) and add an “S” mintmark.
Signs of Alteration:
- Inconsistent font size or spacing
- Mintmark misalignment
- Different wear levels on the mintmark compared to the rest of the coin
How to Be Sure
Send the coin to a trusted grading service like:
- Professional Coin Grading Service (PCGS) – pcgs.com
- Numismatic Guaranty Company (NGC) – ngccoin.com
These services will verify authenticity, grade the coin, and even encase it for preservation.
How Much Is the 1909-S VDB Penny Worth?
The value of this coin depends heavily on its condition. Here’s a breakdown:
| Condition | Estimated Value |
| Good (G-4) | $900–$1,100 |
| Fine (F-12) | $1,500–$2,000 |
| Extremely Fine (EF-40) | $3,000–$5,000 |
| Mint State (MS-60 to MS-67) | $6,000–$100,000+ |
For example, a 1909-S VDB graded MS-66 Red by PCGS sold for $117,500 at auction in 2022.
What to Do If You Think You Have One
Step 1: Don’t Clean It!
Cleaning can lower the coin’s value by thousands of dollars. Leave it as is.
Step 2: Use a Magnifier
Look carefully for the “S” mintmark and the “V.D.B.” initials.
Step 3: Compare With Online Resources
Use high-res photos from PCGS or NGC for comparison. YouTube has expert guides as well, like this one:
- Is My 1909 S VDB Wheat Cent Real? – YouTube Guide
Step 4: Get It Graded
Submit your coin to a third-party grading service. You’ll receive certification and a detailed report.
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FAQs on Rare 1909-S VDB Lincoln Cent
Q1. Why is the 1909-S VDB penny so valuable?
Because only 484,000 were minted before the “V.D.B.” initials were removed, and demand among collectors is high.
Q2. Can I find this penny in everyday change?
It’s rare, but not impossible. Most have been collected, but coins do re-enter circulation occasionally.
Q3. Is a 1909 VDB without the “S” mintmark worth anything?
Yes, but it’s much more common. Its value is around $10–$50 depending on condition.
Q4. How do I know if the mintmark is fake?
Consult a professional grading service or experienced dealer. Look for inconsistencies in mintmark style and placement.
Q5. Where can I sell a genuine 1909-S VDB penny?
Reputable coin dealers, auction houses, or online marketplaces like eBay (for graded coins) are good options.
