The 1909 S VDB penny is one of the most famous and valuable U.S. coins out there. Collectors love it for its rarity, history, and special design. Here’s everything you need to know about this amazing coin and how much it can be worth.
A Quick Look at the History
In 1909, the U.S. Mint released a new penny design to celebrate Abraham Lincoln’s 100th birthday. This coin replaced the Indian Head penny. It was also the first U.S. coin to show a real person—Abraham Lincoln—on the front.
The designer, Victor David Brenner, added his initials “VDB” to the back of the coin. But many people thought the initials were too big. So the mint quickly removed them. Before that happened, only 484,000 of these coins were made at the San Francisco Mint (that’s the “S” you see under the date). That small number made the coin rare right away.
Why It’s So Rare
- Low Mintage: Only 484,000 made. That’s super low compared to most pennies.
- Fewer Left Today: Experts say maybe 40,000–50,000 still exist.
- Short Production Time: It was only made for a short time before the design changed.
How Much Is a 1909 S VDB Penny Worth?
The value depends on how nice the coin looks (its condition). Here are some average prices:
| Condition | Type | Estimated Value |
|---|---|---|
| Very Fine (VF30) | Circulated | Around $1,350 |
| About Uncirculated | AU50 | Around $1,650 |
| Mint State (MS67) | Brown Tone | Up to $25,000 |
| Mint State (MS67) | Red-Brown Tone | Up to $50,000 |
| Mint State (MS67) | Bright Red (MS67RD) | Up to $175,000 |
A super shiny MS67RD coin once sold for $168,000 in 2022!
Why Everyone Wants One
Collectors love the 1909-S VDB penny for these reasons:
- Very Rare – Not many were made, and even fewer exist today.
- Important History – First Lincoln cent and first real person on a U.S. coin.
- Unique Design – The “VDB” initials and “S” mint mark make it easy to spot.
- Big Collector Demand – It’s on almost every coin collector’s wish list.
Tips if You’re Thinking of Buying One
- Make Sure It’s Real: Fakes exist, so buy from trusted dealers or have it checked.
- Check the Grade: Coins are graded based on condition. Higher grade = more value.
- Store It Right: Keep it in a coin holder or dry place to avoid damage.
Conclusion
The 1909 S VDB penny isn’t just a small coin—it’s a big deal in the coin world. It’s rare, full of history, and can be worth hundreds to over $175,000. Whether you’re just starting your collection or you’re a seasoned collector, this penny is a must-have treasure. If you ever come across one, consider yourself lucky!
FAQ’s
What does “1909-S VDB” mean on a penny?
“1909” is the year the penny was made. The “S” stands for the San Francisco Mint, and “VDB” are the initials of the designer, Victor David Brenner.
Why is the 1909-S VDB penny so valuable?
It’s valuable because only 484,000 were made before the U.S. Mint removed the “VDB” initials. That makes it very rare, and collectors are always looking for rare coins.
How can I tell if my penny is a real 1909-S VDB?
Check for the “S” mint mark under the date on the front and the “VDB” initials on the back at the bottom. For high-value coins, it’s best to have it checked by a professional coin grading service.
