The $150,000 Lincoln Wheat Penny Still Circulating in the U.S.

The 1909-S VDB Lincoln Wheat Penny is most likely one of the most sought-after coins by collectors. It was a special coin struck in 1909, which marked the inaugural year of issue of the world-famous Lincoln penny series. Another aspect that distinguishes it even more is the distinctive initials “VDB” of the designer of the coin, Victor David Brenner, stamped on the reverse of the coin. With hardly any coins produced, it has today turned into a rare and coveted discovery among coin collectors.

Why the 1909-S VDB Penny is Special

This penny is special in history because it was the initial Lincoln penny to be produced. It was released in 1909, and only 484,000 of them were produced at the San Francisco Mint. That is really low compared to other coins, which is partly why this penny is so rare today.

The abbreviations “VDB” are short for Victor David Brenner, the coin designer. He stamped his initials on the reverse side of the coin, but shortly thereafter, folks complained that the initials were too conspicuous and resembled an advertisement. So, the U.S. Mint promptly deleted them, making the handful of authentic coins even more valuable today.

This $54K Lincoln Wheat Penny Could Be Circulating Near You

How Rare Is the 1909-S VDB Penny?

With only 484,000 coins made, this penny is one of the rarest in the Lincoln cent series. Most coins then were in the millions, so this is really unique. It is precious to many collectors, and getting one in good shape is extremely hard.

Record-Breaking Auction Sale

In 2022, a mint-state 1909-S VDB penny rated MS-67 sold for a whopping price — $155,000. That’s just so much money for such a little coin! The grade of the coin, the fact that it’s rare, and the historical significance of it all went towards creating the top sale price. It speaks to how valuable the coins are to serious collectors.

A Must-Have for Coin Enthusiasts

Whether you’re just starting or already deep into coin collecting, the 1909-S VDB penny is seen as a must-have. It’s not just a coin; it’s a piece of American history. Its low mintage, the story behind the initials, and its role as the first Lincoln penny all make it a crown jewel in any coin collection.

The 1909-S VDB Lincoln Wheat Penny is more than old money — it’s history. Its value and infamy over the initials of the designer have made this coin so highly sought by collectors. If you are lucky enough to come across one, particularly in mint condition, you may be holding a fortune. Its value and significance are only going to increase in the years to come.

FAQ’s

Q. What is indicated with the rustic letters inscribed 1909-S VDB on a penny?

A. 1909 means that the coin was minted in a given year. Some of the initials stand for the mint city S, which in this case is San Francisco, while VDB stands for the initials of the designer, Victor David Brenner.

Q. Is there something unique about the 1909-S VDB penny?

A. The reason for this was that only 484,000 were made; it is rare. Furthermore, this coin is from the very first issue of Lincoln cents. These coins are even rarer as the large initials VDB proved to be “bad” in circulation.

Q. How much would a penny with a date of 1909 sell for?

A. 1909-S VDB pennies are appreciated as tens of thousands to more than $100,000, selling for $144,000 in 2022-in reference to the grade condition.

Q. Is it easy to find the 1909-S VDB penny in the present day?

A. Not at all; they are really rare and mostly found in coin collections. One in mint condition is even harder to come by.

Q. Is it possible to sell a 1909-S VDB penny in India?

A. Yes, such coins are valued by rare coin collectors and auction houses in India, as well as by international coin collectors.