1909 VDB Lincoln Penny: One penny could change your life—literally. A rare version of the 1909 VDB Lincoln penny has been known to fetch up to $200,000 at auctions, making it one of the most sought-after coins among collectors. If you have an old coin jar sitting around, now is the time to check—it could contain a fortune.
Here’s everything you need to know about this valuable coin, how to identify it, and how much it might be worth today.
Why Is the 1909 VDB Lincoln Penny So Valuable?
The 1909 VDB penny was the very first version of the Lincoln cent, introduced to honor Abraham Lincoln’s 100th birthday. Designed by Victor David Brenner, the initials “VDB” were printed prominently on the reverse of the coin at the bottom.
That small detail caused controversy—some believed it was too much self-promotion—so the U.S. Mint quickly removed the initials. Only a limited number of the 1909 VDB pennies were produced, especially those made at the San Francisco Mint (1909-S VDB).
That’s what makes them so rare—and incredibly valuable.
Key Facts About the 1909 VDB Lincoln Penny
| Feature | Details |
|---|---|
| Year Issued | 1909 |
| Mint Marks | “S” for San Francisco, none for Philadelphia |
| Designer Initials | VDB (on reverse at bottom) |
| Rarest Version | 1909-S VDB |
| Estimated Value | Up to $200,000 in pristine condition |
| Common Value Range | $600 to $3,000+ depending on condition |
How to Identify a 1909 VDB Penny
To check if you have one of these rare coins:
- Look at the Date: Should say “1909”
- Check the Reverse: Flip the coin and look along the bottom center. You should see “V.D.B.” printed there.
- Find the Mint Mark:
- No mint mark = Philadelphia (less rare)
- “S” mint mark below the date = San Francisco (RARE and valuable)
If your coin says “1909-S VDB” — congratulations! You might be holding a collector’s dream.
How Much Is a 1909-S VDB Penny Worth?
The value depends on the coin’s grade (its condition). Here’s a rough estimate:
| Condition | Estimated Value |
|---|---|
| Good (G4) | $700 – $1,000 |
| Fine (F12) | $1,200 – $2,000 |
| Extremely Fine (EF40) | $2,500 – $4,000 |
| Mint State (MS65+) | $50,000 – $200,000+ |
Collectors will pay top dollar for coins that are well-preserved and have strong, clear details. Coins graded by third-party services like PCGS or NGC tend to sell for even higher prices at auctions.
How to Sell or Appraise Your Coin
If you think you’ve found a 1909-S VDB penny, follow these steps:
- Do Not Clean the Coin! Cleaning can reduce its value.
- Use a Magnifying Glass to confirm the VDB initials and mint mark.
- Get It Professionally Graded – Contact a trusted grading service like:
- Professional Coin Grading Service (PCGS)
- Numismatic Guaranty Company (NGC)
- Check Auctions & Dealers – Heritage Auctions, eBay, and local coin shows can help you determine demand and pricing.
Be Aware of Fakes
Because of its high value, the 1909-S VDB penny is one of the most counterfeited coins in U.S. history. Be cautious if buying or selling:
- Fake coins may have added “S” mint marks.
- Always verify authenticity through a professional grading service.
Quick Recap: What to Look For
- Date: 1909
- Mint Mark: “S” under the date
- Initials: “V.D.B.” on the reverse
- Condition: Better condition = higher value
If your coin checks all these boxes, you may be holding a piece of history worth thousands—or even hundreds of thousands—of dollars.
Frequently Asked Questions (FAQs)
1. Is the 1909 VDB penny still in circulation?
While highly unlikely, it’s not impossible. Most are in private collections now.
2. What’s the difference between 1909 VDB and 1909-S VDB?
The “S” mint mark means the coin was made in San Francisco and is significantly rarer.
3. Can I sell my penny online?
Yes. Many collectors use eBay, Heritage Auctions, or work through coin dealers.
4. Should I get my coin graded?
Yes. Grading verifies authenticity and increases the resale value.
5. Are other old pennies valuable too?
Yes. Wheat pennies, Indian Head pennies, and other key-date coins can also be worth big money—especially in good condition.
Final Tip: If you have an old jar of coins or inherited a coin collection, take time to sort through it. That dusty penny might just be worth a small fortune.