A simple cleaning session turned into a once-in-a-lifetime discovery when a 1909-S VDB Lincoln penny was found in an old desk drawer.
What looked like just another penny is now confirmed to be worth a stunning $110,000, thanks to its historical importance, rarity, and exceptional condition.
This surprising find highlights the immense value some forgotten coins can hold—and why collectors are always on the lookout.
The Legacy of the 1909-S VDB Lincoln Penny
The 1909-S VDB Lincoln penny is one of the most iconic coins in American history. It marked the beginning of the Lincoln cent series and was the first U.S. coin to feature a real person, President Abraham Lincoln.
The coin was designed by Victor David Brenner, and his initials, “V.D.B.,” were boldly placed on the reverse. However, their prominence sparked public backlash, prompting officials to halt production and remove the initials.
Because of this short run, only 484,000 of the 1909-S VDB coins were minted—making it one of the rarest Lincoln pennies ever created.
Why the Coin Is Worth $110,000
Several key factors contribute to the massive value of this coin:
- Extremely low mintage: Only 484,000 coins were produced before the design was altered.
- Historical importance: It was part of a turning point in U.S. coin design.
- Strong collector demand: Every serious coin collector wants a 1909-S VDB in their collection.
- Exceptional condition: Coins in mint or near-mint condition can sell for over six figures.
A well-preserved 1909-S VDB in Mint State-67 condition is what skyrocketed this desk-drawer discovery to a value of $110,000.
Valuation Breakdown by Grade
The value of a 1909-S VDB penny varies dramatically based on its condition, or “grade.” Here’s a breakdown of what these coins can fetch at various grading levels:
| Grade | Condition Description | Estimated Value |
|---|---|---|
| Good (G-4) | Heavy wear, major details worn | $800 – $1,200 |
| Fine (F-12) | Moderate wear, key features clear | $1,500 – $2,000 |
| Extremely Fine (EF-40) | Light wear, details mostly sharp | $2,800 – $3,500 |
| About Uncirculated (AU-50) | Slight traces of wear | $4,000 – $6,000 |
| Mint State (MS-63) | No wear, good luster | $10,000 – $20,000 |
| Mint State (MS-65) | Premium strike, minimal flaws | $30,000 – $50,000 |
| Mint State (MS-67) | Near-perfect condition | $100,000 – $110,000+ |
Coins that are uncirculated or have near-perfect surfaces command top dollar at auctions or from private collectors.
How to Identify a Genuine 1909-S VDB Penny
If you think you may have this valuable coin, here’s how to verify it:
- “S” mint mark: Located just beneath the date (1909) on the front of the coin.
- “V.D.B.” initials: Clearly visible on the bottom center of the reverse side.
- Sharp wheat stalks: Check for detail on the wheat design on the reverse.
- Authentic look and weight: The coin should weigh around 3.11 grams and be made of 95% copper.
If your coin checks these boxes, the next step is professional grading, which confirms authenticity and assigns a formal grade.
The Value of Forgotten Coins
The story of this coin is a reminder that rare treasures often hide in plain sight. Whether it’s a childhood piggy bank, a dusty drawer, or an inherited coin jar, valuable coins are out there—waiting to be rediscovered.
A coin like the 1909-S VDB Lincoln cent, especially in exceptional condition, represents a perfect storm of scarcity, historical relevance, and desirability. Even well-circulated versions are worth hundreds, and collectors are willing to pay top dollar for coins with minimal wear.
The discovery of a 1909-S VDB Lincoln penny worth $110,000 is more than just a collector’s dream—it’s a reminder that forgotten drawers, old collections, and even loose change can hide historic gems.
This particular penny’s value stems from a combination of rarity, condition, and collector enthusiasm. If you ever stumble upon a coin that looks unusual or old, don’t dismiss it—it could be worth far more than you imagine.
FAQs
How can I find out the value of my 1909-S VDB penny?
You can inspect the coin’s condition and look for key features like the “S” mint mark and “V.D.B.” initials. For an official valuation, submit the coin to a professional grading service.
Can worn 1909-S VDB pennies still be valuable?
Yes! Even coins in poor or fair condition can be worth $800 or more. The rarity alone ensures that all versions have collector value.
Where can I sell a rare Lincoln penny?
You can sell through coin dealers, online marketplaces, or coin auctions. For high-value coins, having a certificate from a professional grading service is strongly recommended.