The 1909-S V.D.B. Lincoln Cent is one of the most iconic and valuable coins in U.S. history, drawing collectors from around the world. This cent, with its unique history and design, represents a moment of change in American numismatics. Created by designer Victor David Brenner, it was the first widely circulated U.S. coin to feature the image of an actual person, President Abraham Lincoln. This coin’s value and rarity stem from its limited mintage and its place in history. From passionate young collectors to seasoned coin enthusiasts, the story of the 1909-S V.D.B. Lincoln Cent captivates all who encounter it.
| Feature | Description |
|---|---|
| Year of Minting | 1909 |
| Designer | Victor David Brenner |
| Obverse Design | Profile of President Abraham Lincoln |
| Reverse Design | Two wheat ears, with “ONE CENT” and “UNITED STATES OF AMERICA” |
| Mint Mark | “S” (indicating it was minted at the San Francisco Mint) |
| Initials | “V.D.B.” on the reverse, which were later removed |
| Mintage | Approximately 484,000 coins |
| Grading Levels | Commonly graded as MS (Mint State) with various subgrades like MS64 RB or MS67 RD |
| Current Market Value | Can range from hundreds to over $100,000, depending on grade and condition |
| Popularity | Highly popular due to historical significance and rarity |
| Key Date for Series | Considered a “key date” in Lincoln Cent collections due to low mintage and historical context |
| Counterfeits | Commonly counterfeited; authentication from a reputable grading service is recommended |
History and Significance of the 1909-S V.D.B. Lincoln Cent
In 1905, President Theodore Roosevelt initiated a project to beautify U.S. coins. He enlisted the famous artist Augustus Saint-Gaudens, who, although he designed beautiful coins, did not complete the Lincoln Cent. The task ultimately went to Victor David Brenner, whose design became iconic, breaking tradition by featuring Lincoln’s portrait on a coin intended for circulation. This marked the first time a U.S. coin showcased an actual person, departing from earlier designs with symbolic figures.
Why the V.D.B. Initials Sparked Controversy
Brenner added his initials, “V.D.B.,” on the reverse of the Lincoln Cent. Although subtle, the initials received significant backlash from the public and U.S. Mint officials, leading to their removal. This removal created two unique varieties for collectors: 1909 With and Without V.D.B. and 1909-S With and Without V.D.B. The 1909-S V.D.B. version became particularly rare and valuable, cementing its status in numismatic history.
The Appeal and Rarity of the 1909-S V.D.B. Lincoln Cent
With a mintage of only 480,000 coins, the 1909-S V.D.B. Lincoln Cent is scarce, especially given the popularity of Lincoln Cents among collectors. Due to its rarity, this coin has achieved legendary status and is consistently ranked among the 100 Greatest United States Coins. Despite a relatively high mintage by today’s standards, only a fraction of these coins exist in high-quality condition, making the 1909-S V.D.B. Cent highly sought after.
The Demand for Authentication and Challenges with Counterfeits
Given its popularity and value, the 1909-S V.D.B. Cent has been heavily counterfeited over the years. These counterfeits range from obvious fakes to impressively convincing copies. Authentication by reputable grading services, like the Numismatic Guaranty Corporation (NGC), is crucial for anyone purchasing this coin, as even seasoned collectors can struggle to spot well-made fakes.
Investing in a 1909-S V.D.B. Lincoln Cent: What to Look For
For those interested in owning this rare coin, it’s essential to understand grading. Coins are rated based on condition, with MS (Mint State) grades indicating an uncirculated coin. MS64 Red Brown (RB) or Red (RD) grades are often considered the best value, as higher grades command exponentially higher prices. However, buyers should be cautious with RD-designated coins, as their color can mellow over time, which might reduce their value.
Market Trends and Value
The value of a 1909-S V.D.B. Lincoln Cent depends on its grade, with pristine examples fetching significant sums. For instance, coins graded MS67 RD have sold for over $100,000 at auction. The coin’s rarity, coupled with its place in history, ensures its ongoing appeal and demand. Around 10 years ago, the discovery of an original roll of 1909-S V.D.B. Cents briefly increased the supply, but demand remains high, making it a strong investment for collectors.
The Lasting Legacy of the 1909-S V.D.B. Lincoln Cent
The 1909-S V.D.B. Lincoln Cent is more than just a coin; it represents a turning point in American coinage, where historical figures replaced symbolic imagery. As such, it holds a special place for collectors and historians alike. For those lucky enough to own one, the coin is not only a collector’s item but also a piece of American history that brings respect and admiration from others in the hobby.
Conclusion
The 1909-S V.D.B. Lincoln Cent remains one of America’s most famous coins. Its history, rarity, and controversy make it a prized piece for any collector, from those just beginning their journey to experienced numismatists. Owning this coin offers a unique connection to U.S. history, a badge of honor among collectors, and a potential investment for the future. If you’re looking to build a collection or dive into numismatics, the 1909-S V.D.B. Lincoln Cent stands as a true American classic worth every effort to obtain.
FAQs
1. Why is the 1909-S V.D.B. Lincoln Cent so valuable?
The 1909-S V.D.B. Lincoln Cent is valuable because of its low mintage (484,000 coins), historical significance as the first U.S. coin with a president’s portrait, and its unique design by Victor David Brenner. Its scarcity and popularity among collectors contribute to its high value.
2. What does “V.D.B.” stand for on the coin?
“V.D.B.” are the initials of Victor David Brenner, the designer of the Lincoln Cent. His initials were added to the reverse of the coin but later removed due to public backlash, which created two versions of the coin: with and without the initials.
3. What makes the 1909-S V.D.B. different from other 1909 Lincoln Cents?
The 1909-S V.D.B. Lincoln Cent was minted in San Francisco (indicated by the “S” mint mark) and has the initials “V.D.B.” on the reverse. The limited mintage and inclusion of these initials make it unique compared to other 1909 Lincoln Cents, such as the 1909 without the “S” mint mark and those without the V.D.B. initials.
4. How can I verify if a 1909-S V.D.B. Lincoln Cent is authentic?
Due to the prevalence of counterfeit versions, it’s essential to get the coin authenticated by a reputable grading service like the Numismatic Guaranty Corporation (NGC) or Professional Coin Grading Service (PCGS). These services have the expertise to verify the coin’s authenticity.
5. What is the price range for a 1909-S V.D.B. Lincoln Cent?
Prices vary significantly based on condition. Low-grade examples can sell for several hundred dollars, while high-grade Mint State (MS) examples, especially with RD (Red) designation, can fetch thousands or even exceed $100,000 at auction.