The 1909 Lincoln penny marked a major milestone—it was the first U.S. coin to feature a real historical figure, President Abraham Lincoln. Released to celebrate his 100th birthday, it was a big hit.
But one particular version of this coin—the 1909-S VDB penny—has captured the attention of collectors for generations.
With only 484,000 ever made, this small copper coin is now one of the rarest and most valuable pennies in American numismatic history.
Origins
In 1909, the U.S. Mint asked sculptor Victor David Brenner to design the new penny. He included his initials, “V.D.B.,” on the reverse side of the coin. While it was a common practice to credit designers, many critics at the time felt the initials were too large and obvious.
Because of this backlash, the Mint quickly removed the initials from future designs. But before the change, a small number of pennies with both the “V.D.B.” initials and a San Francisco mint mark (“S”) were released. That’s how the 1909-S VDB was born—a coin that would become a legend in coin collecting circles.
Features
If you think you’ve found a 1909-S VDB penny, there are a few important things to look for:
- Date: The front of the coin should show 1909
- Mint mark: A small “S” should appear under the date, showing it was made in San Francisco
- Initials: Flip the coin over and check the bottom of the reverse side. The “V.D.B.” initials should be visible between the two wheat stalks
- Color: Coins may appear in Red, Red-Brown, or Brown tones depending on age and preservation
These small features are what make this coin so distinct and valuable.
Value
How much is a 1909-S VDB penny worth today? A lot depends on the coin’s condition and color. Here’s a general idea:
| Condition | Estimated Value (USD) |
|---|---|
| Good (G-4) | $750 – $1,000 |
| Fine (F-12) | $1,200 – $1,500 |
| Extremely Fine | $2,500 – $4,000 |
| Mint State (MS-63) | $5,000 – $9,000+ |
| Red MS-65 | Over $25,000 |
Even a worn version can bring in thousands, but pristine uncirculated coins with a rich red color are true jackpot finds.
Tips
It’s easy to get confused, especially since there are other 1909 penny variations:
- 1909 VDB (no S): Common, not very rare
- 1909-S (no VDB): Also rare, but not as valuable
- 1909 (no S, no VDB): Most common of all
So before you celebrate, double-check that your coin has both the “S” mint mark and the “V.D.B.” initials. And please—never clean or polish the coin. It can destroy its collector value. Instead, send it to a trusted coin grading service like PCGS or NGC to have it properly verified.
The 1909-S VDB penny is more than just pocket change—it’s a symbol of American history, artistry, and rarity. With fewer and fewer surviving each year, its value continues to climb.
If you’re lucky enough to find one tucked away in a family coin box, treat it like buried treasure. You could be holding a piece of numismatic gold.
FAQs
What does VDB mean on a penny?
VDB are the initials of the coin’s designer, Victor David Brenner.
How many 1909-S VDB pennies exist?
Only 484,000 were minted, and far fewer survive today.
Where is the S mint mark located?
Below the date on the front (obverse) of the coin.
Should I clean my coin?
No, cleaning lowers its value. Always leave it as is.
Is a 1909 VDB penny valuable?
It has value, but only the S VDB version is truly rare.
