The 1909-S VDB penny is one of the most famous coins in American history. This small copper penny can be worth more than $2,000, and some rare examples have sold for over $175,000! The penny is known as the “key date” of the Lincoln cent series because of its low production numbers and the excitement surrounding its release. In this article, we’ll explore the value of the 1909-S VDB penny, its unique history, and what makes it so special for collectors.
What Makes the 1909-S VDB Penny Unique?
The 1909-S VDB penny was created to celebrate the 100th anniversary of Abraham Lincoln’s birth. It features the image of Lincoln on the front and the words “One Cent” on the back. This penny was produced at the San Francisco Mint with a very low mintage of only 484,000 coins, making it rare and highly sought after by collectors.
The Drama Behind the Penny’s Creation
The excitement for the new Lincoln penny was immense. When it was first released on August 2, 1909, people couldn’t wait to get their hands on it. However, just three days later, the government stopped production because of public outcry regarding the initials of the coin’s designer, Victor D. Brenner, being featured on the back of the penny.
This caused a stir in the newspapers, leading the Secretary of the Treasury to order the initials “V.D.B.” to be removed from the coin. After that, production resumed on August 12 with new dies that did not include the initials. This sudden change made the 1909-S VDB penny even more popular, and many people started hoarding them as they realized how special they were.
How Valuable Is the 1909-S VDB Penny?
The value of the 1909-S VDB penny can vary greatly based on its condition. Coins are graded on a scale of 1 to 70, with 70 being perfect. Here’s a breakdown of the prices for different grades:
Mint State Grades for 1909-S VDB Pennies
| Color Type | Grade | Price |
|---|---|---|
| Brown (BN) | MS-60 | $2,200 |
| MS-61 | $2,325 | |
| MS-62 | $2,350 | |
| MS-63 | $2,600 | |
| MS-64 | $3,150 | |
| MS-65 | $4,750 | |
| MS-66 | $7,500 | |
| MS-67 | $25,000 | |
| Red-Brown (RB) | MS-60 | $2,300 |
| MS-61 | $2,400 | |
| MS-62 | $2,500 | |
| MS-63 | $2,750 | |
| MS-64 | $3,300 | |
| MS-65 | $5,200 | |
| MS-66 | $9,000 | |
| MS-67 | $50,000 | |
| Red (RD) | MS-60 | $2,300 |
| MS-61 | $2,500 | |
| MS-62 | $2,600 | |
| MS-63 | $2,750 | |
| MS-64 | $5,250 | |
| MS-65 | $8,000 | |
| MS-66 | $17,500 | |
| MS-67 | $175,000 |
What Do the Color Classifications Mean?
The 1909-S VDB pennies are also classified by their color, which affects their value:
- Brown (BN): Coins that have turned brown over time.
- Red-Brown (RB): Coins that still have some original red color remaining.
- Red (RD): Coins that maintain almost all of their original color.
Red coins are typically the most valuable, as they are harder to find in such good condition.
Rarity and Auction Records
Some 1909-S VDB pennies have made headlines at auctions for their incredible selling prices:
- Brown (BN): The highest recorded auction price is $10,000 for an MS-66 BN in 2022.
- Red-Brown (RB): The top price is $19,200 for an MS-67 RB in 2021.
- Red (RD): The record auction price reached $168,000 for an MS-67 RD in 2022.
These high prices reflect the demand and rarity of these coins among collectors.
Common Varieties and Errors
While there are no major varieties of the 1909-S VDB penny, some common errors can be found in other pennies, such as:
- Doubled Die: Where the design is stamped twice, creating a doubled appearance.
- Repunched Mint Mark: When the mint mark is stamped more than once.
- Cuds: When a piece of the die breaks off, leaving an empty space on the coin.
Why Are There So Many Counterfeits?
The 1909-S VDB penny’s rarity and high value have made it a target for counterfeiters. It’s essential for collectors to buy from reputable dealers and have their coins graded to ensure authenticity.
Conclusion
The 1909-S VDB penny is a significant piece of American numismatic history. With its low mintage, captivating story, and dramatic removal of the designer’s initials, it continues to capture the interest of collectors. Whether you are a seasoned collector or just starting, understanding the value, varieties, and potential for counterfeits is essential. As the market for this penny continues to grow, it remains a prized possession for many, showcasing both historical significance and the beauty of coin collecting.
FAQ’s
What does “VDB” stand for on the penny?
“VDB” stands for Victor D. Brenner, the designer of the Lincoln cent.
Why is the 1909-S VDB penny so valuable?
It is rare, with only 484,000 produced, and its historical significance adds to its value.
What are the different grades for the 1909-S VDB penny?
Coins are graded from 1 to 70, with 70 being perfect. Grades include MS-60, MS-65, and MS-67, among others.
What do the color classifications (BN, RB, RD) mean?
BN stands for Brown, RB for Red-Brown, and RD for Red, indicating the coin’s color and preservation.
How can I avoid buying a counterfeit 1909-S VDB penny?
Buy from reputable dealers, and consider having the coin graded by a professional grading service.