Discover Why This Humble Penny Can Be Worth $1,000+
At PennyVerse.info, we’ve created the definitive guide to the legendary 1909 VDB penny – the coin that launched the Lincoln cent series and remains one of the most sought-after coins in American numismatics.
The Fascinating History Behind the 1909 VDB
Why the Initials Caused a Scandal
- VDB stands for Victor David Brenner, the coin’s designer
- Original design featured large VDB on reverse
- Public outcry led to removal after only 6 days of production
- Small initials later restored under Lincoln’s shoulder
Key Production Facts
- Philadelphia Mint: 27,995,000 made (no mintmark)
- San Francisco Mint: 484,000 made (“S” mintmark)
- Only 6 days of production with full VDB
Identifying Your 1909 VDB Penny
1. Obverse Features
- “IN GOD WE TRUST” above Lincoln
- “LIBERTY” on left
- Date (1909) on right
- Designer’s initial “B” on Lincoln’s shoulder
2. Reverse Features (Original VDB)
- Two wheat ears framing denomination
- “ONE CENT” at top
- “UNITED STATES OF AMERICA” at bottom
- Large “VDB” at bottom (most valuable)
Current Market Values (2024 Update)
| Variety | Good | Fine | Extremely Fine | Uncirculated |
|---|---|---|---|---|
| 1909 VDB (P) | $10 | $25 | $75 | $200-$500 |
| 1909 VDB (S) | $600 | $900 | $1,500 | $3,000-$6,000 |
| 1909 VDB Proof | $1,500 | $2,500 | $4,000 | $8,000+ |
*Note: “Full VDB” specimens command 20-50% premiums*
Rare Error Varieties to Look For
1. Double Die Obverse
- Value: $300-$5,000
- Identification: Doubling on date/LIBERTY
2. Repunched Mintmark
- Value: +50% over normal
- Look For: Secondary “S” visible
3. Off-Center Strikes
- Value: $100-$1,000
- Premium: 10-30% misalignment
Grading & Authentication Tips
- Weight Check: Should be 3.11g (±0.13g)
- Measure Diameter: 19mm exact
- Magnetic Test: Must be non-magnetic
- Surface Inspection: Look for authentic wear
- VDB Placement: Verify position/size
Where to Find These Rare Pennies
- Old Coin Collections (Especially inherited)
- Bank Rolls (Still found in circulation)
- Estate Sales (Check antique containers)
- Coin Dealers (Ask for “wheat cent albums”)
Professional Selling Advice
For Common 1909 VDB (P)
- eBay (list as “1909 VDB Lincoln Cent”)
- Local coin shops
- Coin club auctions
For Rare 1909 VDB (S)
- Heritage Auctions
- PCGS/NGC Set Registry
- Specialist Lincoln cent dealers
For High-Grade Examples
- Professional imaging essential
- Consider CAC sticker for premium
- Target registry set collectors
Market Trends & Investment Potential
- San Francisco issues up 40% since 2020
- High-grade examples becoming museum pieces
- Original red specimens command 300% premiums
- Complete VDB sets gaining popularity
Join Our Lincoln Cent Collector Community
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- Free weekly wheat penny alerts
- Live video grading sessions
- Access to our VDB rarity database
- Members-only buying opportunities
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