Imagine finding a penny tucked behind an old clock that could be worth over $85,000. That’s exactly what happened during a routine home renovation when a family uncovered a 1909-S VDB Lincoln penny—one of the rarest and most valuable coins in U.S. history. This seemingly ordinary penny has captured the attention of collectors and numismatists worldwide, becoming a symbol of how hidden treasures can be found in the most unlikely places.
In this guide, we’ll explore what makes the 1909-S VDB Lincoln penny so special, how to identify it, and why it could be worth thousands—perhaps even sitting in your own home.
What Is the 1909-S VDB Lincoln Penny?
The 1909-S VDB Lincoln penny is a one-cent coin with historical significance and extraordinary rarity. Minted in San Francisco to mark the first-ever Lincoln cent, the coin features the iconic portrait of Abraham Lincoln on the obverse, and the initials VDB (for Victor David Brenner, the coin’s designer) on the reverse.
While the 1909 Lincoln penny was the first U.S. coin to feature a real person, the VDB initials caused public controversy. Due to backlash, the initials were quickly removed, making the 1909-S VDB particularly rare. Only about 484,000 of these pennies were ever minted, and they remain highly coveted by collectors today.
Why the 1909-S VDB Penny Is Worth $85,000+?
The 1909-S VDB Lincoln penny commands a price of up to $85,000 or more due to several important factors:
1. Low Mintage Numbers
The 1909-S VDB penny was minted in extremely low quantities—just 484,000 coins. Compared to other Lincoln pennies from the same era, this is a remarkably low number, making the coin rare and desirable.
2. Short Production Run
The initials “VDB” were removed from the design soon after public outcry, which means that only a single year of 1909 saw coins minted with these initials. This short production run makes the 1909-S VDB unique and hard to find.
3. San Francisco Mint Mark
Coins produced at the San Francisco Mint are typically minted in smaller quantities compared to other facilities. The 1909-S VDB is no exception, which contributes to its scarcity and value.
4. Collector Demand
As a “holy grail” for Lincoln cent enthusiasts, the 1909-S VDB penny has consistently remained in high demand. Serious collectors actively seek this coin to complete their collections, which drives up its market value.
5. Condition
The condition, or grade, of the coin is crucial in determining its value. Uncirculated versions in excellent condition have sold for prices upwards of $85,000. Even those in fair condition are still worth a significant amount.
Quick Overview of the 1909-S VDB Lincoln Penny
| Feature | Details |
|---|---|
| Coin Name | 1909-S VDB Lincoln Penny |
| Mint Location | San Francisco |
| Designer Initials | VDB (Victor David Brenner) |
| Total Minted | Approx. 484,000 |
| Metal Content | 95% copper, 5% tin and zinc |
| Reason for Rarity | Short run and removal of initials |
| Found Location | Behind a wall clock during home renovation |
| Estimated Value | Over $85,000 (based on condition) |
| Still in Circulation | Extremely rare, mostly found in collections |
| Collector Interest | Very high |
How to Identify a Genuine 1909-S VDB Lincoln Penny?
To identify a genuine 1909-S VDB Lincoln penny, you’ll need to examine a few key features closely. Here’s what to look for:
| Feature | What to Look For |
|---|---|
| Mintmark | Look for a small “S” under the date. |
| Date | The coin should clearly display “1909”. |
| Initials | “VDB” should appear at the bottom of the reverse side. |
| Condition | The sharper the details, the higher the value. |
| Weight | Approximately 3.11 grams, consistent with a bronze penny. |
If the “S” mintmark is missing or unclear, or if there are traces of VDB initials being altered, the coin may be a counterfeit or not a genuine 1909-S VDB penny. For confirmation, it’s best to have the coin professionally authenticated and graded.
Understanding Coin Grades and Values
The condition of your 1909-S VDB penny will significantly impact its value. Here’s a guide to help you determine the potential worth of your coin:
| Grade | Estimated Value (USD) | Description |
|---|---|---|
| Good (G-4) | $250 – $400 | Worn, but still identifiable with visible date and mintmark. |
| Very Fine (VF-20) | $1,500 – $2,800 | Noticeable wear, but clear details and visible mintmark. |
| Extremely Fine (EF-40) | $3,500 – $5,000 | Strong details with minimal wear on high points. |
| About Uncirculated (AU-50) | $6,500 – $9,000 | Almost no wear, sharp details. |
| Mint State (MS63–MS65) | $12,000 – $85,000+ | Perfect or near-perfect condition with original luster. |
Even a Good or Very Fine example can be worth a substantial amount, while Mint State coins can fetch tens of thousands of dollars or more, depending on the grade.
Could You Have One Hiding at Home?
You may have heard of amazing discoveries, like the 1909-S VDB penny found behind a wall clock during a renovation. Believe it or not, coins like these can still be out there—hiding in old jars, books, or collections.
What to Look For:
- Date: The coin should be stamped with “1909.”
- Mint Mark: The “S” mint mark should appear below the date.
- Initials: The VDB initials should be visible at the bottom of the reverse.
- Condition: Sharper details mean the coin could be worth significantly more.
What to Do If You Find One?
If you think you’ve discovered a 1909-S VDB Lincoln penny, follow these steps:
- Handle with Care: Use gloves or hold the coin by the edges to avoid damaging its surface.
- Store It Properly: Place the coin in a protective sleeve to keep it safe.
- Get It Graded: Send the coin to professional grading services, such as PCGS or NGC, for authentication.
- Don’t Rush to Sell: Auctions often bring in better prices than selling directly to a dealer. Take your time to ensure you get the best value.
FAQs
The coin was minted in limited quantities, and the VDB initials were quickly removed from the design, creating a highly collectable piece.
Check for the date, mintmark, and VDB initials. For authentication, it’s best to use professional grading services.
Work with reputable auction houses, certified dealers, or trusted online platforms to ensure you get top value for your coin.
It’s extremely rare, but some may still be found in old collections, estate sales, or forgotten stashes.
No. Cleaning can damage the coin’s surface and lower its value. Always keep it in its natural state.
