Not all pennies are created equal. Some are worth just one cent… while others are worth over $1,000! 💰 One of the most famous is the 1909-S VDB Lincoln Cent, a small coin with a big history. Here’s what makes this penny so special and how you can identify one in your own collection.
🔎 What Makes the 1909-S VDB Penny Valuable?
This coin isn’t rare just because it’s old—it’s rare because of a tiny detail on the back:
- ✔ “S” Mint Mark – Minted in San Francisco (look for the “S” below the date on the front).
- ✔ V.D.B. Initials – On the reverse (back), at the very bottom, you’ll see tiny initials: V.D.B.
- These stand for Victor David Brenner, the designer of the Lincoln Cent.
- ✔ Low Mintage – Only about 484,000 were made, making it one of the scarcest Lincoln cents.
💰 How Much Is It Worth?
The value depends on the condition, but even a worn example is worth serious money.
| Grade | Approximate Value |
|---|---|
| Good (G-4) | $700 – $900 |
| Fine (F-12) | $1,000 – $1,500 |
| Extremely Fine (XF-40) | $2,000 – $3,000 |
| Uncirculated (MS-63) | $3,500 – $5,000+ |
🔥 Some pristine examples have sold for over $50,000 at auction!
🧐 How to Identify a 1909-S VDB Penny
When checking your collection or pocket change, here’s what to look for:
- Check the Date – Must say 1909.
- Look for the “S” Mint Mark – Found just below the date on the obverse (front).
- Flip the Coin Over – On the reverse bottom center, look closely for V.D.B. initials.
⚠️ Watch Out for Fakes!
Because of its high value, this coin is heavily counterfeited. Be cautious of:
- Pennies with an added “S” mint mark.
- Altered coins with engraved V.D.B. initials.
- Cleaned or damaged coins that lose collector value.
👉 Pro Tip: Always have rare coins authenticated by PCGS or NGC before selling.
🌟 Why Collectors Love the 1909-S VDB
- 🏆 First year of the Lincoln Cent design
- 🔥 One of the “Key Dates” for serious Lincoln cent collectors
- 📈 A coin that has steadily risen in value over the decades
Leave a Reply