1909 VDB Lincoln Penny: Why This Rare Coin Could Be Worth Up to $250,000

For coin collectors and history enthusiasts, few coins hold as much fascination as the 1909 VDB Lincoln penny. This small, seemingly ordinary coin sparked controversy upon its release and has since become one of the most sought-after pieces in U.S. numismatic history. With some versions selling for up to $250,000, the 1909 VDB penny remains a prized possession for collectors worldwide.

So, what makes this coin so special? Let’s explore its history, unique features, and how much it’s worth today.

The History Behind the 1909 VDB Penny

In 1909, the U.S. Mint introduced the Lincoln cent to commemorate the 100th anniversary of Abraham Lincoln’s birth. Designed by Lithuanian-born sculptor Victor David Brenner, the new penny was a significant departure from the previous Indian Head cent, featuring Lincoln’s profile on the obverse (front) and two wheat stalks on the reverse (back).

Brenner included his initials, “VDB”, at the bottom of the reverse side as a signature. However, this seemingly minor detail sparked public backlash, with critics arguing that the initials were too prominent. As a result, the U.S. Mint quickly removed them, making the 1909 VDB pennies rare and highly collectible.

Understanding the Different 1909 VDB Penny Variants

There are two main versions of the 1909 VDB penny:

1. 1909 VDB (Philadelphia Mint – No Mintmark)

• Mintage: 27,995,000
• Rarity: More common than its San Francisco counterpart
• Value: Generally worth $8 to $40 in circulated condition, but pristine uncirculated versions can fetch up to $14,000.

2. 1909-S VDB (San Francisco Mint – “S” Mintmark)

• Mintage: Only 484,000 coins produced
• Rarity: Considered one of the rarest and most valuable Lincoln cents
• Value:
  • Circulated versions start at $800 to $2,000.
  • High-grade uncirculated examples can range from $50,000 to over $250,000.

Key Features of the 1909 VDB Lincoln Penny

The 1909 VDB penny stands out due to a few key design elements:

Obverse (Front):

• Features a right-facing profile of Abraham Lincoln
• The words “IN GOD WE TRUST” are placed above Lincoln’s head
• “LIBERTY” is written on the left side, with the date 1909 on the right

Reverse (Back):

• Displays two wheat stalks, which is why this series is known as the “Wheat Penny”
• The denomination “ONE CENT” and “UNITED STATES OF AMERICA” are at the center
• “VDB” initials appear at the bottom (only on the early 1909 versions)

Why Is the 1909-S VDB Penny So Valuable?

The 1909-S VDB Lincoln penny is often considered the “holy grail” of Lincoln cents for several reasons:

• Extremely low mintage: Only 484,000 were ever struck.
• High collector demand: Because it was quickly discontinued, collectors have sought it for over a century.
• Historical significance: It was part of the very first batch of Lincoln cents.
• Condition scarcity: Finding one in mint condition is rare, and prices skyrocket for coins in MS-65 or higher grades.

Record Auction Sales of the 1909-S VDB Penny

• $50,400 – A near-perfect MS-67 example sold at auction in 2019
• $168,000 – A Red MS-67 grade penny sold in 2021
• $250,000+ – Some of the finest-known specimens have been valued at a quarter of a million dollars

How to Tell If You Have a Valuable 1909 VDB Penny

Want to see if your 1909 penny is worth a fortune? Follow these steps:

• Check for the “VDB” initials – If they’re missing, it’s not a rare version.
• Look for the “S” mintmark – If there’s an “S” under the date, you may have the ultra-rare 1909-S VDB!
• Examine the condition – Coins in better condition are worth significantly more.
• Get professional grading – Send your coin to PCGS or NGC for an official grade.

Where to Sell a 1909 VDB Penny

If you think you have a valuable 1909 VDB Lincoln penny, consider these selling options:

• Coin Auctions – Heritage Auctions, Great Collections, Stack’s Bowers
• Certified Coin Dealers – Ensure you work with reputable numismatic experts
• Online Marketplaces – eBay, Coin Forums, Numismatic Groups

Final Thoughts: A Small Coin With a Big Value

The 1909 VDB Lincoln penny is more than just a piece of currency—it’s a symbol of history, artistry, and collector fascination. While not every 1909 VDB penny is worth a fortune, the ultra-rare 1909-S VDB version remains one of the most valuable Lincoln cents ever minted.

If you happen to find one in your collection, it may be worth getting it professionally evaluated—you could be sitting on a $250,000 treasure.

This article has been carefully fact-checked by our editorial team to ensure accuracy and eliminate any misleading information. We are committed to maintaining the highest standards of integrity in our content.