The 1909-S V.D.B. Lincoln Wheat Cent is one of the most famous and coveted rare pennies among coin collectors, known for its rarity, historical significance, and distinctive design features. Minted in San Francisco, this cent is a key piece of early 20th-century American numismatics and can command high prices depending on condition and grade.
How to Identify the 1909-S V.D.B. Penny
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Year and Mint Mark: The coin displays the year 1909 with an “S” mint mark beneath the date, indicating the San Francisco Mint.
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Designer’s Initials (V.D.B.): The rare feature is the initials “V.D.B.” (Victor David Brenner, the coin’s designer) prominently placed on the reverse at the bottom rim between the wheat stalks.
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Only 484,000 coins were minted with the V.D.B. initials at San Francisco, making this one of the lowest-mintage Lincoln cents.
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Later in 1909, the Mint removed the V.D.B. initials due to controversy, so coins with them are limited in number.
Key Physical Characteristics
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The coin is made from 95% copper, 5% tin and zinc, featuring Lincoln’s portrait on the obverse and wheat ears on the reverse.
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Early casts may show strong relief and sharp detail because of limited circulation.
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The size and font of the mint mark and numerals are consistent with authentic pieces from 1909-S.
Grading Your 1909-S V.D.B. Penny
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Grading ranges from Good (G) to Mint State (MS), with higher grades commanding exponentially higher values.
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Look for wear patterns on Lincoln’s cheek and jawline, wheat ear details on the reverse, and surface blemishes.
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Professional grading services like PCGS or NGC can certify authenticity and grade, boosting collector confidence and resale value.
Estimated Value of 1909-S V.D.B. Pennies
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Lower grades (Very Good to Fine) typically range from $2,500 to $6,000 depending on exact condition and eye appeal.
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Higher grades (Very Fine to About Uncirculated) can fetch $10,000 to $50,000 or more.
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Gem and Mint State (MS60+) examples are rare and may exceed $100,000 at auction.
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Provenance, original packaging, and historical ties enhance premium.
How to Protect and Sell Your Coin
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Store your penny in a protective holder, avoiding contact with oils and rough surfaces.
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Choose reputable dealers or auction houses for appraisals and sales.
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Collectors seeking this coin value detailed provenance and professional grading certificates.
Summary Table: 1909-S V.D.B. Penny Identification and Value
| Feature | Description |
|---|---|
| Mint Mark | San Francisco “S” under date |
| V.D.B. Initials | On reverse bottom rim |
| Mintage | 484,000 |
| Composition | 95% copper, 5% tin and zinc |
| Value Range | $2,500 (low grade) to $100,000+ (mint state) |
| Certification | Highly recommended for value and authenticity |
Q1: How rare is the 1909-S V.D.B. penny?
It is one of the rarest Lincoln cents due to its low mintage and removed initials, making it highly sought after.
Q2: Should I get my 1909-S V.D.B. professionally graded?
Absolutely, grading validates authenticity, condition, and dramatically increases value.
Q3: Where is the V.D.B. marking located on the penny?
On the reverse, at the bottom rim between the two wheat stalks.
