The 1909-S VDB Lincoln Cent is a rare and famous coin that holds a special place in U.S. history. First introduced over a century ago, this coin has become a must-have for serious collectors. Its unique design, low mintage, and historical significance make it valuable and intriguing. In this article, we’ll explore the background of the 1909-S VDB Lincoln Cent, what makes it so special, and why it continues to be a favorite among coin collectors today.
What is the 1909-S VDB Lincoln Cent?
The 1909-S VDB Lincoln Cent was the first coin to feature the image of President Abraham Lincoln. It was introduced to replace the old Indian Head Cent, and it marked the 100th anniversary of Lincoln’s birth. The coin was designed by Victor David Brenner, and its obverse (front) shows a portrait of Lincoln. The reverse (back) features two stalks of wheat, and under these stalks, you can find the initials “VDB,” which stand for Brenner’s name.
Why Is the 1909-S VDB Lincoln Cent So Important?
The 1909-S VDB Lincoln Cent is important for several reasons. First, it was the first Lincoln Cent ever minted, making it a milestone in U.S. coinage. It is also special because the designer’s initials, “VDB,” were originally included on the coin. However, after the release of the 1909-S version, these initials were removed from the design because they caused a public outcry. Some people felt that the initials were too big and took away from the coin’s appearance.
Another reason why the 1909-S VDB Lincoln Cent is so famous is that only a small number of them were made. The San Francisco Mint only produced around 484,000 of these coins, making them very rare and valuable today. The low mintage means that fewer of these coins are available, which drives up the price.
The Design of the 1909-S VDB Lincoln Cent
- Obverse (Front): The front of the coin shows a portrait of Abraham Lincoln. It also has the words “IN GOD WE TRUST” above the image, with “LIBERTY” to the left and “1909” on the right.
- Reverse (Back): The back of the coin features two wheat stalks and the inscription “E PLURIBUS UNUM” above them. Below the wheat stalks, the words “ONE CENT” and “UNITED STATES OF AMERICA” are displayed. The initials “VDB” are located just below the wheat stalks.
How Much Is the 1909-S VDB Lincoln Cent Worth?
The value of the 1909-S VDB Lincoln Cent depends on its condition. Because it is a rare coin, it is worth much more than its face value, even in lower grades. Coins that are in excellent condition can sell for thousands of dollars. Below is a general idea of what the coin might be worth in different grades:
| Condition | Value Range |
|---|---|
| Good (G-4) | $800 – $1,000 |
| Very Fine (VF-20) | $1,500 – $2,500 |
| Extremely Fine (EF-40) | $3,000 – $4,000 |
| About Uncirculated (AU-50) | $5,000 – $7,000 |
| Mint State (MS-60) | $12,000 – $15,000 |
| Gem Mint State (MS-65) | $35,000+ |
The price can vary a lot depending on the coin’s quality. A coin in great shape might be worth $35,000 or more! Even coins in lower conditions are still valuable because of how rare they are.
How to Identify a 1909-S VDB Lincoln Cent
If you want to find a 1909-S VDB Lincoln Cent, here’s what to look for:
- Mintmark: The “S” mintmark is located under the date on the obverse side. It shows that the coin was made at the San Francisco Mint.
- VDB Initials: The initials “VDB” are located on the reverse, beneath the wheat stalks. This is a key feature of the 1909-S VDB and is what makes the coin so rare.
- Condition: Coins in better condition will have clearer details. The better the condition, the more valuable the coin is.
Why Collectors Love the 1909-S VDB Lincoln Cent
The 1909-S VDB Lincoln Cent is one of the most desirable coins among collectors because it is rare and part of an important part of U.S. coin history. It was the first Lincoln Cent ever made, and it was quickly taken out of circulation due to the design controversy surrounding the VDB initials. The fact that fewer than 500,000 of these coins were made only adds to its value and significance.
For coin collectors, owning a 1909-S VDB Lincoln Cent is like owning a piece of U.S. history. Even though it was minted over 100 years ago, it remains one of the most popular and valuable coins in the country.
Conclusion
The 1909-S VDB Lincoln Cent is much more than just a coin – it is a rare piece of U.S. history. Whether you are a coin collector or just interested in learning about American coins, this particular cent is one you should know about. With its rare design, low mintage, and historical significance, the 1909-S VDB Lincoln Cent continues to be a highly sought-after item in the world of numismatics. If you come across one, consider it a valuable find!
FAQ’s
What makes the 1909-S VDB Lincoln Cent so valuable?
The 1909-S VDB Lincoln Cent is valuable because it was minted in limited numbers (only about 484,000) and features the initials “VDB” of its designer, which were quickly removed due to controversy. Its rarity and historical significance make it highly sought after by collectors.
How can I identify a 1909-S VDB Lincoln Cent?
To identify the 1909-S VDB Lincoln Cent, look for the “S” mintmark under the date on the obverse and the “VDB” initials below the wheat stalks on the reverse. These features make it unique and distinguish it from other coins.
How much is the 1909-S VDB Lincoln Cent worth?
The value of the 1909-S VDB Lincoln Cent depends on its condition. In lower grades, it may be worth around $800, but in excellent condition, it can fetch up to $35,000 or more, with mint state coins being the most valuable.