The 1909 VDB Lincoln penny is one of the most famous coins among collectors. Its popularity stems from the controversy over the initials “VDB” on the reverse side of the coin, which belong to the designer, Victor D. Brenner. This tiny detail has made the penny a highly sought-after collector’s item, especially since the initials were removed during the same year of production. In this guide, we’ll break down its value, errors, and varieties, making it easy to understand why this penny remains one of the most collectible U.S. coins.
The VDB Penny Controversy
The initials “VDB” were placed at the bottom rim of the reverse side of the penny by its designer, Victor D. Brenner. However, many people felt that his initials were too prominent on the coin. This backlash led the U.S. Mint to remove the initials, making pennies with “VDB” on them more limited and collectible.
How Much Is a 1909 VDB Penny Worth?
The value of a 1909 VDB penny varies depending on its condition and color classification (BN, RB, or RD). Below is a table that outlines different grades and prices:
| Grade | Brown (BN) | Red-Brown (RB) | Red (RD) |
|---|---|---|---|
| MS-60 | $30 | $30 | $35 |
| MS-61 | $32 | $34 | $40 |
| MS-62 | $37 | $40 | $48 |
| MS-63 | $55 | $60 | $70 |
| MS-64 | $75 | $90 | $115 |
| MS-65 | $110 | $130 | $250 |
| MS-66 | $185 | $275 | $525 |
| MS-67 | $950 | $1,400 | $58,000 |
What Do BN, RB, and RD Mean?
Coins are classified based on their color:
- BN (Brown): Coins that have lost most of their original color.
- RB (Red-Brown): Coins with a mix of red and brown tones.
- RD (Red): Coins with almost all their original red color, making them more valuable.
Errors and Varieties
Some 1909 VDB pennies have errors that make them even more collectible. The most famous error for this coin is the Doubled Die Obverse (DDO), where the design was struck twice, creating a doubling effect. Below are some common errors and their prices:
| Grade | BN Price | RB Price | RD Price |
|---|---|---|---|
| MS-60 | $145 | $150 | $160 |
| MS-61 | $150 | $165 | $175 |
| MS-62 | $180 | $190 | $200 |
| MS-63 | $250 | $250 | $325 |
| MS-64 | $300 | $300 | $425 |
| MS-65 | $750 | $775 | $1,250 |
| MS-66 | – | $2,000 | $3,150 |
| MS-67 | – | – | $14,000 |
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FAQs
What makes the 1909 VDB penny so special?
The 1909 VDB penny is famous because of the controversy surrounding the initials of its designer, Victor D. Brenner. The limited number of VDB pennies makes them highly collectible.
How much is a 1909 VDB penny worth?
The value depends on its condition. It can range from $30 for a lower-grade coin to over $58,000 for one in top condition (MS-68 RD).
What does BN, RB, and RD mean for coin grading?
These are color designations. BN (Brown), RB (Red-Brown), and RD (Red) indicate how much of the coin’s original color is intact.
Are there any errors on the 1909 VDB penny?
Yes, one of the most notable errors is the Doubled Die Obverse (DDO), where the design appears doubled. This error significantly increases the coin’s value.
How can I tell if my 1909 penny is a VDB?
Look at the bottom rim on the reverse side of the coin. If you see the initials “VDB,” you have a VDB penny.