When the Lincoln penny was first introduced in 1909, it marked a significant shift in U.S. coin design. But among these early coins, one particular penny became a sensation—making headlines for its rarity and value. The 1909 Lincoln penny holds secrets that could turn your ordinary coin collection into a treasure trove. Let’s uncover the rarest varieties and what makes them so special.
1909-S VDB Lincoln Penny
The most famous and coveted of them all is the 1909-S VDB Lincoln penny. Minted in San Francisco, this coin features the designer’s initials “V.D.B.” on the reverse. Due to controversy over the bold initials, it was pulled from production early, leaving only 484,000 coins minted. Today, collectors pay $700 to over $50,000 depending on the condition.
1909 VDB Lincoln Penny (No Mint Mark)
While not as rare as its San Francisco counterpart, the 1909 VDB (Philadelphia mint) penny is still highly sought after. This version was struck in much larger quantities but remains popular because it was the very first issue of the Lincoln cent. In mint condition, these coins can fetch $15 to $1,000+ at auctions and online.
1909-S Lincoln Penny (No VDB)
Another rare variation is the 1909-S without the VDB initials. This coin was minted after the removal of the initials but still in limited quantities. Only about 1.8 million were struck, making it significantly rarer than many other Lincoln pennies. Values range from $100 to $4,000, depending on condition and certification.
A Penny That Changed Everything
The 1909 Lincoln penny isn’t just a coin—it’s a piece of American numismatic history. From the rare and highly valuable 1909-S VDB to other hard-to-find variants, these pennies continue to excite collectors and investors alike. Check your old jars, drawers, or inherited collections—you might be holding a coin that once made headlines.
FAQ’s:
1. What makes the 1909-S VDB penny so rare?
It was pulled from circulation early, making it one of the lowest-mintage coins in the Lincoln cent series.
2. How can I identify a 1909-S VDB penny?
Look for the “S” mint mark below the date and the “V.D.B.” initials at the bottom of the reverse side.
3. Are 1909 pennies still found in circulation?
It’s extremely rare, but occasionally one might appear in estate finds, old piggy banks, or collections.
4. What is the difference between VDB and non-VDB pennies?
VDB pennies have the designer’s initials; non-VDB coins do not. VDB varieties are more valuable, especially with the “S” mint mark.
5. Should I get my 1909 penny graded?
Yes, professional grading can confirm authenticity and significantly increase its resale value.