imagine finding a penny in your change jar that could be worth over $2,000. That is exactly what one collector might do if he gets his hands on a rare 1909 VDB Lincoln penny. Recently, one collector purchased one for a record price of $2,146 at an auction. This penny is special because it is one of the few pennies created in 1909 featuring the initials “VDB” on the back; these are the initials of its designer, Victor David Brenner. Here’s what you need to know to check if you’re hiding a piece of history in your loose change:.
The Story of the 1909 VDB Penny
The story behind this penny is fascinating. In 1909, to celebrate Abraham Lincoln’s 100th birthday, the U.S. Mint wanted to introduce a new penny design. Brenner, a Lithuanian immigrant and skilled engraver, was chosen to design this special coin. His initials “VDB” appeared at the bottom of the coin on the reverse side, right below the wheat stalks.
However, not everyone was happy with the initials. Many people thought they were too prominent, so the U.S. Mint removed them shortly after the first batches were released. This made the 1909 VDB pennies with visible initials quite rare, especially those minted at the San Francisco Mint (indicated by an “S” under the date), making them even more valuable.
Is Your 1909 Penny Worth a Fortune?
How do you know if your 1909 penny is valuable? Check for these two details:
- Date: Look for the year 1909.
- Initials: Flip the coin over and look at the bottom of the reverse side. If you see “VDB” below the wheat stalks, you might have one of these rare pennies.
If your penny also has an “S” below the date, it’s even rarer! Only around 484,000 of these 1909-S VDB pennies were minted, making them one of the most sought-after coins for collectors.
Value of the 1909 VDB Penny
A 1909 VDB penny can range from a few hundred dollars to over $2,000, depending on its condition and mint mark. For example:
| Condition | Approximate Value |
|---|---|
| Worn/Low Condition | $300+ |
| Good Condition | $700–$800 |
| Uncirculated (Mint) | $1,800+ |
An uncirculated 1909-S VDB penny in excellent condition can fetch more than $2,000 at auction. In comparison, a regular 1909 VDB (Philadelphia Mint) penny is more affordable but still valuable for collectors.
How to Preserve the Value of Your Coins
If you find one of these special pennies, it’s essential to handle it carefully:
- Avoid Cleaning – Cleaning a coin can damage its surface and lower its value.
- Use Gloves – Oil from your fingers can cause discoloration.
- Store Properly – Place the penny in a coin holder or a protective case to keep it safe from scratches and environmental damage.
FAQs about the 1909 VDB Penny
Q1: Why are the initials “VDB” so important?
A: Victor David Brenner, the coin’s designer, included his initials on the reverse side, which was a bold move at the time. The initials were controversial and quickly removed, making the original VDB pennies rare and valuable.
Q2: How can I find out the exact value of my 1909 VDB penny?
A: It’s best to have your penny professionally graded by a coin appraiser or a reputable grading service like the Professional Coin Grading Service (PCGS). The condition greatly impacts its worth.
Q3: What’s the difference between the 1909 VDB penny and the 1909-S VDB penny?
A: The 1909 VDB penny was minted in both Philadelphia and San Francisco. The “S” on a 1909-S VDB penny shows it was minted in San Francisco, making it rarer and more valuable.
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