1909 S VDB Penny Value – How Rare Is It and How Much Is It Worth?

Published On: December 29, 2024

1. Background History

The 1909-S VDB penny holds special historical significance for several reasons:

First Lincoln Cent: 1909 marked the debut of the Lincoln cent, which replaced the Indian Head cent. This was the first U.S. coin to feature a president, breaking from the tradition of symbolic imagery.
VDB Initials: The “VDB” on the reverse stands for Victor David Brenner, the coin’s designer. Brenner’s initials originally appeared prominently on the back of the coin, but public backlash led to their removal after limited production. This unique detail is one reason the 1909-S VDB penny is so coveted.
San Francisco Mint (“S”): The “S” mintmark indicates the coin was struck at the San Francisco Mint. Combined with the low mintage, this detail makes the coin even more exclusive.

Interestingly, this was also the first U.S. coin to feature the motto “In God We Trust”, adding another layer of historical significance.

2. How Rare Is the 1909-S VDB Penny?

The rarity of the 1909-S VDB penny lies in its limited production and survival rate.

Mintage: Only 484,000 of these pennies were minted, which is exceptionally low compared to other coins of the era. For context, most Lincoln cents of the time had mintage numbers in the millions.
Survival Rate: Over time, many of these coins were lost, damaged, or melted down. This further reduces the number of coins available today, particularly in higher grades.

Its rarity stems not only from the small mintage but also from the fact that relatively few remain in collectible condition, especially in uncirculated grades.

3. Condition Determines Value

The condition (or grade) of a 1909-S VDB penny has a significant impact on its value. Coins are graded on the Sheldon Scale, ranging from Poor (P-1) to Mint State (MS-70). Here’s how condition affects value:

Grade/Condition	Value Range
Good (G-4) to Fine (F-12):	$700–$1,200
Very Fine (VF-20) to Extremely Fine (EF-40):	$2,500–$5,000
Mint State (MS-63):	$10,000–$15,000 or more
Gem Condition (MS-65+):	$100,000+

Key Points to Consider:

Low-Grade Coins: Even in heavily circulated condition, this penny can fetch several hundred dollars due to its scarcity.
High-Grade Coins: Well-preserved examples in mint state or higher are exceptionally rare and can reach six figures at auction.
Certified Coins: Coins professionally graded and authenticated by services like PCGS or NGC often command higher prices due to buyer confidence.

4. Current Market Trends

The 1909-S VDB penny is consistently in demand among collectors, and its value continues to appreciate over time. A few reasons for its sustained popularity:

Historical Importance: As the first Lincoln cent and an iconic error coin, it’s a must-have for serious collectors.
Long-Term Investment: With so few uncirculated examples remaining, the value of high-grade coins is expected to remain strong or even grow over time.
Market Variability: While demand is steady, fluctuations in market trends or the discovery of additional coins could influence its value. However, its historical significance ensures its status as a cornerstone of U.S. numismatics.

Why the 1909-S VDB Penny Is Essential

For Lincoln cent enthusiasts, the 1909-S VDB penny is more than just another coin; it’s a centerpiece that represents history, artistry, and rarity. Without it, a Lincoln cent collection feels incomplete, especially for collectors striving for a comprehensive set of key dates, mintmarks, and varieties.

The 1909-S VDB penny is a prized possession for collectors due to its historical significance, rarity, and the story behind its production. While its value depends on condition, even lower-grade examples are highly sought after and worth a substantial amount. Whether you’re a seasoned numismatist or a new collector, owning this coin is an achievement and a testament to the enduring appeal of U.S. coinage.