The 1909 VDB Lincoln Penny stands as a testament to numismatic history, captivating collectors with its unique design and rarity.
Understanding its origins, distinguishing features, and market value can transform an ordinary coin hunt into a treasure quest.
Origin And Design
In 1909, to commemorate the centennial of President Abraham Lincoln’s birth, the U.S. Mint introduced the Lincoln cent, marking the first time a U.S. coin featured a president’s portrait.
Renowned sculptor Victor David Brenner designed the coin, embedding his initials “VDB” prominently on the reverse side, beneath the wheat stalks. This inclusion sparked public debate, leading to the removal of the initials shortly after the coin’s release.
Mintage and Variations
The 1909 VDB pennies were minted in two primary locations
- Philadelphia Mint: Produced approximately 27,995,000 coins without a mint mark.
- San Francisco Mint: Produced a significantly lower mintage of 484,000 coins, identifiable by an “S” mint mark below the date.
This substantial difference in production numbers contributes to the heightened value of the 1909-S VDB variant.
Identifying a 1909 VDB Penny
To determine if you possess a 1909 VDB penny:
- Examine the Obverse (Front): Ensure the date reads “1909.” Below the date, check for an “S” mint mark, indicating it was minted in San Francisco.
- Inspect the Reverse (Back): Look at the bottom center near the rim for the “VDB” initials. Their presence confirms it’s a VDB penny.
- Assess Condition: Coins with minimal wear, retaining original luster and sharp details, are more valuable.
Market Value
The value of a 1909 VDB penny varies based on its condition and mint origin:
- 1909 VDB (Philadelphia Mint):
- Good Condition: Approximately $12 to $15.
- Uncirculated (MS60): Around $100 to $150.
- 1909-S VDB (San Francisco Mint):
- Good Condition: Approximately $700 to $1,000.
- Uncirculated (MS60): Values can range from $4,000 to over $10,000.
Notably, a 1909-S VDB penny in pristine condition (MS67 grade) fetched approximately $175,000 at auction.
Preservation Tips
To maintain or enhance your penny’s value:
- Proper Storage: Use coin holders or albums to prevent physical damage.
- Avoid Cleaning: Cleaning can reduce a coin’s value; it’s best to preserve its natural patina.
- Professional Grading: For high-value coins, consider certification from reputable grading services to authenticate and grade your coin.
| Feature | 1909 VDB (Philadelphia) | 1909-S VDB (San Francisco) | Highest Auction Price | Identifying Marks |
|---|---|---|---|---|
| Mintage | 27,995,000 | 484,000 | $175,000 | “VDB” on reverse; no mint mark for Philadelphia, “S” mint mark for San Francisco |
| Good Condition Value | $12 – $15 | $700 – $1,000 | ||
| Uncirculated Value | $100 – $150 | $4,000 – $10,000 |
The 1909 VDB Lincoln Penny is more than just a piece of currency; it’s a slice of American history. Whether you’re a seasoned collector or a curious novice, understanding its background, identifying features, and market value can lead to exciting discoveries—and perhaps even a valuable addition to your collection.
FAQs
What does “VDB” stand for on the 1909 penny?
“VDB” are the initials of Victor David Brenner, the designer of the Lincoln cent. His initials were initially placed on the reverse side but were later removed due to public criticism over their prominence.
Why is the 1909-S VDB penny more valuable than the 1909 VDB?
The 1909-S VDB penny had a limited mintage of only 484,000 coins from the San Francisco Mint, making it significantly rarer than the 1909 VDB from the Philadelphia Mint, which had a mintage of nearly 28 million. This scarcity increases its value among collectors.
How can I get my 1909 VDB penny graded?
To have your coin professionally graded, submit it to a reputable grading service such as the Professional Coin Grading Service (PCGS) or Numismatic Guaranty Corporation (NGC). They will assess its authenticity and condition, providing a grade that can help determine its market value.