In the world of coin collecting, few coins have captured the hearts of collectors like the 1909-S VDB Lincoln penny. Known as the “Holy Grail” of American pennies, this coin is not just rare — it tells a story of American history, design controversy, and numismatic prestige. From its very limited mintage to the mysterious initials that made it famous, the 1909-S VDB penny is one of the most sought-after and talked-about coins in the United States. But what makes it so special? Let’s explore the reasons behind its iconic status.
What Is the 1909-S VDB Lincoln Penny?
The 1909-S VDB penny was the first year of the Lincoln cent series, introduced to replace the Indian Head penny. Designed by Victor David Brenner, the coin features President Abraham Lincoln on the obverse — the first time a U.S. president appeared on circulating coinage.
Here’s the breakdown of the name:
- 1909: The year it was minted.
- S: Minted in San Francisco.
- VDB: The initials of the designer, Victor David Brenner, located on the reverse side at the bottom center.
This tiny signature created major controversy, resulting in the coin being pulled from production shortly after its release — making it incredibly rare.
1. Extremely Low Mintage</h3>
Only 484,000 of these coins were minted at the San Francisco Mint. That’s a tiny number when you consider the millions of pennies produced each year. This low mintage makes the coin very scarce.
2. Controversial VDB Initials</h3>
Brenner’s initials “VDB” were placed prominently on the reverse of the coin, which stirred public and governmental backlash. The initials were removed just days after production started, making the existing coins limited.
3. Historical Significance</h3>
The 1909 penny marked the 100th anniversary of Abraham Lincoln’s birth and was a major shift in U.S. coin design — moving away from classical imagery to actual historical figures.
4. Collectible Status</h3>
Because of its short run, controversy, and link to Lincoln, this penny is considered the “must-have” coin for collectors, especially those collecting Lincoln cents by year and mint.
How Much Is a 1909-S VDB Penny Worth Today?
The value depends on the coin’s grade (condition), but even a worn example can fetch over $1,000. Mint-condition examples can be worth $3,000 to $12,000 or more. Coins graded MS-65 Red (Mint State, uncirculated with full color) can sell for up to $50,000 or more at auctions.
How to Spot a Real 1909-S VDB Penny
Since it’s so valuable, many counterfeits exist. To verify authenticity, check for:
- S mintmark below the date
- VDB initials at the bottom of the reverse between the wheat stalks
- Weight and diameter (should weigh about 3.11 grams and be 19 mm wide)
- Professional grading from services like PCGS or NGC for high-value coins
The 1909-S VDB Lincoln penny is not just a piece of metal; it’s a piece of American history. From its dramatic debut to its controversial design, it continues to fascinate collectors over a century later. Whether you’re a seasoned numismatist or just starting your coin collection journey, owning this penny is like holding a treasure from the past. With its low mintage, historical value, and collector demand, this coin has earned its reputation as the “Holy Grail of U.S. pennies.” If you ever come across one, treat it with care — you might be holding a small fortune.
FAQ’s:
1. How can I tell if my 1909 penny is a VDB?
Check the back of the coin. If it has the initials “VDB” at the bottom center between the wheat stalks, it’s a VDB version.
2. Where is the mintmark located?
Look under the year “1909” on the obverse (front). If there’s an “S,” it was minted in San Francisco.
3. What’s the rarest Lincoln penny?
The 1909-S VDB penny is considered one of the rarest and most desirable Lincoln cents ever minted.
4. How much is a 1909-S VDB penny worth today?
Depending on its condition, the value can range from $1,000 to over $50,000.