If you have a collection of coins, you might want to check for a rare one: the 1909-S VDB Lincoln penny. This coin is incredibly valuable, selling for as much as $3,960 at auction. The reason for its high price is its rarity, the specific details it carries, and its special grading. In this article, we’ll explain what makes the 1909-S VDB penny so sought-after, and how you can spot it if you have one.
What Makes the 1909-S VDB Lincoln Penny Valuable?
The 1909-S VDB penny stands out for several reasons:
- First Year of Lincoln Cents: This penny was part of the very first year the Lincoln cent series was released.
- Low Mintage: Only 484,000 of these pennies were ever made, which makes it one of the rarest Lincoln pennies.
- Mintmark and Initials: The “S” mintmark shows it was produced at the San Francisco Mint. The “VDB” initials on the back represent the artist who designed the coin, Victor David Brenner. These initials were removed quickly after complaints, making the 1909-S VDB pennies even rarer.
Key Characteristics of the 1909-S VDB Penny
To understand why this coin is so valuable, it’s important to know its unique characteristics:
- Condition: The coin must be in good condition, with sharp details and a noticeable red color. For example, the 1909-S VDB penny recently sold at auction had around 90% of its original red color.
- Minting Details: The coin was made with 95% copper and a small amount of tin and zinc. This combination adds to its durability and value.
- Sharp Initials: On most 1909-S VDB pennies, the artist’s initials are faint. But if the initials are sharp and clear, like the one recently sold for $3,960, the value goes up even more.
1909-S VDB Lincoln Penny
| Details | Information |
|---|---|
| Year | 1909 |
| Mintmark | S (San Francisco Mint) |
| Initials | VDB (Victor David Brenner) |
| Mintage | 484,000 |
| Composition | 95% copper, 5% tin and zinc |
| Value at Auction | $3,960 (in MS65 Red and Brown condition) |
How to Spot the 1909-S VDB Penny
If you think you might have one of these rare pennies, here’s how to check:
- Year and Mintmark: Look for the year “1909” on the coin, and check for an “S” mintmark below the date.
- Initials: Flip the coin over and look for “VDB” near the rim on the reverse side.
- Condition: The better the condition, the higher the value. The more red color and sharpness the coin has, the more valuable it will be.
Even if your 1909-S VDB penny is worn or has some discoloration, it could still be worth a lot. Many collectors search for these coins, so it’s a good idea to keep an eye out.
Conclusion
The 1909-S VDB Lincoln penny is a rare and valuable coin that collectors love to find. Its low mintage, historical importance, and specific features make it a treasure. If you think you have one, make sure to check for the “S” mintmark and “VDB” initials. And remember, the better the condition, the higher the price you could get for it. If you own a 1909-S VDB penny, it’s time to take a closer look—it could be worth thousands!
FAQ’s
What makes the 1909-S VDB penny so valuable?
Its rarity, with only 484,000 made, and its unique features, like the “VDB” initials and minting details, make it highly valuable.
How can I tell if I have a 1909-S VDB penny?
Look for the “S” mintmark below the date and the “VDB” initials on the reverse side near the rim.
What condition does the coin need to be in to be valuable?
Coins with sharp details, red color, and clear initials are worth more, especially in higher grades like MS65.