The 1909-S VDB Lincoln cent is one of the most valuable and sought-after coins in the world of numismatics. Its rich history, design controversy, and rarity make it a prized possession for collectors. This coin is not just a piece of currency, but a symbol of American history and minting. Let’s explore why this coin holds such great value and how you can identify it.
The Importance of the 1909-S VDB Lincoln Cent
The 1909-S VDB Lincoln cent marks a significant event in U.S. minting history. It was the first time a real person—President Abraham Lincoln—was featured on a circulating U.S. coin. This was done to celebrate the 100th anniversary of Lincoln’s birth and honor his leadership during the Civil War. The design for the coin was created by Victor David Brenner, a famous Lithuanian-American sculptor.
The front of the coin (obverse) features a bust of Abraham Lincoln, inspired by famous photographs of the president. The back of the coin (reverse) shows two stalks of wheat, symbolizing growth and prosperity. However, the controversy surrounding the design occurred because Brenner included his initials, “VDB,” on the back of the coin. Critics felt that these initials were too large and distracted from the coin’s purpose of honoring Lincoln. As a result, the initials were removed, creating two different varieties of the coin: one with the “VDB” and one without.
Why Is the 1909-S VDB Lincoln Cent So Valuable?
Several factors make the 1909-S VDB Lincoln cent one of the most valuable coins in history:
1. Limited Mintage
Only 484,000 coins were produced at the San Francisco Mint before the design controversy led to its discontinuation. This number is very small compared to the millions of Lincoln cents minted each year, making the 1909-S VDB a rare coin.
2. Design Controversy
The inclusion of Brenner’s initials turned this coin into a symbol of both controversy and history, which further contributed to its rarity and desirability.
3. Historical Significance
This was the first Lincoln cent issued and had one of the shortest-lived design types in U.S. history. Being linked to President Lincoln adds to its collectible value.
4. Condition and Preservation
Coins in excellent condition are highly sought after. Coins with Red (RD) or Red-Brown (RB) designations are especially valuable. A well-preserved coin can be worth much more than a coin in poor condition.
Market Prices and Record Sales
The price of the 1909-S VDB cent varies based on its condition. Here’s a breakdown:
| Condition | Price Range |
|---|---|
| Good to Fine (G4-F12) | $700 – $1,200 |
| Extremely Fine to About Uncirculated (EF45-AU58) | $1,800 – $3,000 |
| Mint State (MS60-MS67) | Thousands of dollars |
| MS67RD (Highest Grade) | Over $300,000 |
In January 2023, a coin graded MS67RD was sold at auction for $345,375, setting a new record for this rare coin.
How to Identify an Authentic 1909-S VDB Lincoln Cent
Because of its high value, the 1909-S VDB cent is often targeted by counterfeiters. Here’s how to identify a genuine coin:
- Mint Mark: Look for the “S” mint mark below the date on the front of the coin. The mint mark should be sharp and clearly defined.
- Designer Initials: The initials “VDB” should appear on the back of the coin. They must be sharp and clear, with distinctive angles on the letters.
- Weight and Composition: A real 1909-S VDB coin weighs 3.11 grams and is made of 95% copper and 5% tin and zinc.
- Color and Luster: Well-preserved coins will have a bright red or reddish-brown color. The luster should be shiny and reflective.
To avoid buying a counterfeit, it’s a good idea to use professional coin grading services like PCGS or NGC.
Caution: Counterfeit Coins
Many fake versions of the 1909-S VDB Lincoln cent are sold each year. Some are altered 1909 cents with added “S” mint marks or fake “VDB” initials. Always consult a trusted dealer or use professional grading services to verify the authenticity of the coin.
Conclusion
The 1909-S VDB Lincoln cent is a rare and valuable coin with deep historical significance. Its design controversy, limited mintage, and connection to Abraham Lincoln make it highly prized by collectors. Whether you are a seasoned numismatist or a new collector, it’s important to understand how to identify an authentic coin and avoid counterfeits. With its potential to be worth hundreds of thousands of dollars, the 1909-S VDB Lincoln cent remains a living piece of history.
FAQ’s
Why is the 1909-S VDB Lincoln cent so valuable?
The 1909-S VDB Lincoln cent is rare due to its limited mintage and the controversy over the designer’s initials, making it a highly sought-after coin.
What is the highest price ever paid for a 1909-S VDB Lincoln cent?
A coin graded MS67RD sold for $345,375 in January 2023.
How can I tell if my 1909-S VDB coin is real?
Check the mint mark, designer initials, weight, and color to ensure your coin is authentic.