Among all the Lincoln Wheat pennies ever minted, the 1909-S VDB stands out as one of the rarest and most iconic coins in U.S. history. It’s a legendary piece for collectors, thanks to its unique markings, historical background, and limited mintage.
If you ever find one in your pocket change or family collection, you could be looking at a coin worth lakhs—or even crores—of rupees.
Let’s look into what makes the 1909-S VDB Lincoln cent so valuable and how you can identify an authentic one.
Special
So, what’s the big deal with this particular penny?
First, it was part of the very first Lincoln cent series released in 1909 to commemorate Abraham Lincoln’s 100th birthday. The “S” indicates it was minted in San Francisco, while “VDB” are the initials of the coin’s designer, Victor David Brenner, placed on the bottom of the reverse side.
But here’s the kicker: only about 484,000 of these coins were made with both the “S” mint mark and “VDB” initials. That’s an extremely low number when compared to the billions of pennies that have been minted overall.
Because of this, it became one of the most desired coins in the hobby—especially for those building a complete Lincoln Wheat cent collection.
Fake
This penny is so famous and valuable that counterfeit versions are everywhere.
Scammers often try to add an “S” mint mark to regular 1909 VDB pennies or even alter lower-value coins to trick buyers. That’s why if you suspect you’ve found one, don’t try to judge its value on your own—get it authenticated by a professional service like PCGS or NGC.
Even small things like the position and shape of the S mint mark, or how crisp the VDB initials are, can reveal whether a coin is real or fake.
Identify
If you have a 1909 penny and think it might be the real deal, here’s how to check:
- Mint Mark: Look for a small “S” below the date on the front (obverse) of the coin
- VDB Initials: Located at the very bottom of the back (reverse), just below the wheat stalks
- Sharp Details: The letters and numbers should be crisp, not smeared or shaky
- Color and Wear: Red-colored coins with no wear are the most valuable (graded as “RD”)
Still not sure? Use a high-quality magnifying glass or loupe, or better yet, take it to an expert.
Value
The value of the 1909-S VDB Lincoln penny varies based on its grade and color (Red, Brown, or Red-Brown). Here’s a general idea of what it could be worth:
| Condition | Approximate Value (USD) |
|---|---|
| Good (G-4) | $700 – $1,000 |
| Fine (F-12) | $1,200 – $1,500 |
| Extremely Fine | $2,000 – $4,000 |
| Uncirculated (MS) | $6,000 – $15,000 |
| MS67RD (Top Grade) | Over $168,000 |
Yes, you read that right. In 2022, a coin in MS67RD condition sold at auction for $168,000, which is over ₹1.4 crore in Indian currency.
Tip
If you own one, here are some important dos and don’ts:
- Don’t clean it. Cleaning a rare coin can ruin its value
- Do store it safely, preferably in a coin capsule or holder
- Do get it graded by a certified expert before selling
The 1909-S VDB Lincoln cent isn’t just a coin—it’s a piece of history. With its limited production, bold designer initials, and sky-high value, it’s considered the holy grail of Lincoln pennies.
If you ever stumble upon one, don’t treat it like pocket change. You might just be holding a fortune in your hands.
FAQs
What does 1909-S VDB stand for?
1909 is the year, S is for San Francisco Mint, VDB are designer initials.
How many were made?
Only around 484,000 coins were minted with the S and VDB.
Where are the VDB initials?
They appear at the bottom of the reverse, under the wheat stalks.
How do I know if it’s real?
Check mint mark details or get it authenticated by PCGS or NGC.
What is the top value for this coin?
One sold for $168,000 in mint condition at auction.
