The Lincoln Wheat Cent is one of the most iconic coins in American history. While many people see it as just another penny, the story behind its creation is quite interesting. This article explores how the 1909 Lincoln Wheat Cent came to be, its designer’s fascinating journey, and why it’s so valuable today.
The Man Behind the Lincoln Wheat Cent
Interestingly, the designer of the famous Lincoln penny, Victor David Brenner, wasn’t American. He was born as Viktoras Baranauskas in 1871 to a Jewish family in Šiauliai, Lithuania. His family lived in a garrison town on the edge of the Russian Empire. At the age of 19, Brenner immigrated to the United States to avoid being sent to Siberia. He settled in New York City, where he worked as a die cutter and later opened his own workshop.
In New York, Brenner refined his engraving skills, and eventually, his work caught the attention of influential figures. He studied in Paris and worked with Oscar Roty, a well-known medalist. By 1908, Brenner’s talent earned him a commission to design a service medal for the Panama Canal, which introduced him to President Theodore Roosevelt.
The Birth of the Lincoln Penny
During his interactions with Roosevelt, Brenner suggested creating a coin to honor Abraham Lincoln. At the time, Brenner was already working on a Lincoln plaque to celebrate the president’s centennial, and Roosevelt liked the idea. Roosevelt, who admired Lincoln and saw himself as his political successor, was enthusiastic about the project.
In 1909, to mark Lincoln’s 100th birthday, Roosevelt approved the minting of a penny featuring Brenner’s design. This coin would be the first portrait coin in U.S. history, a significant departure from previous designs that only featured symbols or figures like Liberty. The design included Lincoln’s profile on the front, while the reverse featured two ears of wheat.
The Design of the 1909 Lincoln Wheat Cent
The obverse (front) of the Lincoln Wheat Cent includes a detailed profile of Lincoln, with the word “LIBERTY” on the left and the phrase “IN GOD WE TRUST” above. This design choice reflects Lincoln’s importance as a symbol of American values. The reverse of the coin features two stalks of wheat and the words “ONE CENT,” “E PLURIBUS UNUM,” and “UNITED STATES OF AMERICA.” Brenner also included his initials, “VDB,” at the bottom of the reverse side, where the wheat stalks meet.
Initially, the penny was minted in two places: Philadelphia and San Francisco. However, more coins were struck in Philadelphia, and these did not carry a mint mark. In San Francisco, the coins featured Brenner’s initials, “VDB.” Due to public complaints that the initials were too prominent, the U.S. Mint removed them from future versions. This made the 1909 VDB pennies from San Francisco rare and highly valuable.
The Value of the 1909 Lincoln Wheat Cent
Today, the 1909 VDB Lincoln Wheat Cent from San Francisco is one of the most sought-after coins by collectors. Only about half a million of these coins were produced, making them incredibly rare. While Brenner’s initials were returned to the penny in 1918, they were placed on Lincoln’s shoulder to avoid drawing attention away from the design.
The historical significance of the Lincoln Wheat Cent, combined with its rarity, makes it a valuable piece for collectors. This coin not only honors Abraham Lincoln but also represents the craftsmanship and artistic vision of Victor David Brenner.
| Feature | Lincoln Wheat Cent | Modern U.S. Pennies |
|---|---|---|
| Year Introduced | 1909 | Various years |
| Obverse Design | Profile of Abraham Lincoln | Varies by year |
| Reverse Design | Two ears of wheat | Varies by year |
| Mint Mark | Philadelphia (no mark), San Francisco (S) | Varies |
| Designer’s Initials | “VDB” (rare on 1909 coins) | Not as prominently displayed |
Conclusion
The story of the 1909 Lincoln Wheat Cent is a fascinating blend of history, art, and politics. Designed by Victor David Brenner, an immigrant with a passion for engraving, this coin became a symbol of American pride. The Lincoln Wheat Cent was the first U.S. coin to feature a portrait, setting a precedent for future designs. Today, it is a treasured collectible, especially the rare 1909 VDB version from San Francisco. Whether you’re a history buff or a coin collector, understanding the journey behind this penny makes it all the more meaningful.
FAQ’s
Why is the 1909 Lincoln Wheat Cent valuable?
The 1909 Lincoln Wheat Cent is valuable because it was the first U.S. portrait coin and the San Francisco “VDB” version is rare due to limited production.
Who designed the Lincoln Wheat Cent?
The Lincoln Wheat Cent was designed by Victor David Brenner, an immigrant from Lithuania who became a skilled engraver in the U.S.
What does “VDB” stand for on the Lincoln Wheat Cent?
“VDB” are the initials of Victor David Brenner, the designer of the coin, placed at the bottom of the reverse side in 1909.
How many 1909 VDB Lincoln cents were made in San Francisco?
Only around half a million of the 1909 VDB Lincoln Wheat Cents were minted in San Francisco, making them rare and valuable.
What makes the 1909 Lincoln Wheat Cent different from other pennies?
The 1909 Lincoln Wheat Cent was the first U.S. coin to feature a portrait and marked the 100th anniversary of Abraham Lincoln’s birth.