For investors in collectible coins, the 1909 VDB penny is one of the most famous and sought-after coins. While there are rarer coins, the 1909 VDB penny, also known as the 1909 Lincoln cent or 1909 wheat penny, remains a favorite among collectors and investors. The significant mintage volume of this coin hasn’t diminished its appeal. In fact, its fascinating story has only increased its value. Here’s a closer look at why the 1909 VDB penny is a valuable investment for numismatists and coin collectors alike.
1909 VDB Penny Value
While it may seem surprising that an old penny can be worth more than just one cent, the 1909 VDB penny holds significant value. Its worth is steeped in history, rarity, and demand among collectors. Two main versions of this coin are highly sought after: one minted in Philadelphia and the other in San Francisco.
- Philadelphia Minting: With nearly 28 million coins struck, the value of the 1909 VDB penny from Philadelphia ranges from $4 to $375, depending on the condition.
- San Francisco Minting: The 1909-S VDB penny is rarer, with only 484,000 minted, and its value can range from $700 to $22,500. In fact, the highest auction price ever paid for a 1909-S VDB penny was a remarkable $168,000 at a 2022 Stack’s Bowers Galleries auction.
History of the 1909 VDB Penny
The 1909 VDB penny is more than just a coin; it has a rich history that adds to its allure. President Theodore Roosevelt sought to refresh U.S. coinage by including portraits of prominent individuals, breaking away from tradition. For the 100th anniversary of Abraham Lincoln‘s birth, Roosevelt enlisted sculptor Victor David Brenner to design a coin that would feature Lincoln’s image.
Brenner’s design placed Lincoln’s bust on the front (obverse) of the coin, with the words “IN GOD WE TRUST” arching above. On the reverse, two sheaves of wheat framed the coin’s inscription. The initials V.D.B. (for Victor David Brenner) were initially placed at the bottom of the reverse, which led to public controversy. Many people believed the initials were too prominently displayed. As a result, the Philadelphia mint struck nearly 28 million coins, but the initials were removed, making the 1909-S VDB penny an instant collector’s item due to its limited production.
How to Check if Your 1909 VDB Pennies Are Valuable
If you’re lucky enough to own a 1909 VDB penny, it’s essential to know how to evaluate its authenticity and value. Here’s how you can assess your coin:
1. Condition
A coin’s condition is crucial to its value. Coins that are uncirculated (in mint condition) are rarer and more valuable. Inspect the coin for signs of wear, discoloration, or damage.
2. Date
The year of the coin significantly affects its value. The 1909 VDB penny commemorates Lincoln’s centenary and marks the first time a U.S. president’s portrait appeared on a coin, further increasing demand among collectors.
3. Mint Marks
The mint mark on a coin identifies where it was minted. The 1909 VDB pennies minted in Philadelphia have no mint mark, while the San Francisco minting carries the “S” mint mark, which makes it more valuable. The 1909-S VDB penny is often targeted by counterfeiters, so checking the position and authenticity of the S mint mark is important.
$138K Rare Penny Coins to Look For: Discover Most Valuable Error Pennies Worth Big Money
Top 6 Most Valuable U.S. Gold Coins: A Glimmering Investment Opportunity
Discovering Hidden Treasures: Most Valuable Jefferson Nickels Worth Up to $5,200
5 Rare Pennies That Could Be Worth Millions – Check Your Collection
The 1916 Buffalo Nickel: A Rare Collectible Worth Investigating
4. Mint Errors
Errors in minting, such as double strikes or off-center stamps, can make a coin more valuable. These mint errors are rare but can add considerable value to a coin.
The 1909 VDB penny is more than just a historical artifact—its value has only grown over time, making it a coveted piece for collectors and investors alike. Whether it’s the Philadelphia or the rarer San Francisco version, the 1909 VDB penny offers an exciting opportunity for anyone looking to invest in U.S. numismatics. The combination of rarity, historical significance, and collectors’ demand makes this coin a must-have for any serious investor in collectible coins.
Leave a Reply