The Lincoln Wheat Penny Valued at $168K: The 1909-S VDB Lincoln Wheat penny holds a special place in American coin collecting as one of the most coveted and valuable coins in the Lincoln cent series. This remarkable coin represents the inaugural year of Lincoln pennies, which would go on to become one of America’s longest-running coin designs. What makes this particular penny extraordinary is the combination of two key factors: the San Francisco mint mark (S) and the designer’s initials (VDB) appearing together on a coin with extremely limited production. These elements have created a legendary status for this humble penny that continues to captivate collectors more than a century after its creation.
Understanding the Coin’s Distinctive Features
The “S” on the 1909-S VDB penny indicates it was minted at the San Francisco facility, while “VDB” represents the initials of Victor David Brenner, the talented sculptor who designed the Lincoln cent. These initials appear on the reverse side of the coin, discreetly positioned at the bottom between the wheat stalks. What makes this combination particularly significant is that shortly after the coin’s release, public criticism about the prominence of the designer’s initials led to their removal. Before this change took effect, only about 484,000 pennies were struck at the San Francisco Mint bearing both the “S” mint mark and the VDB initials, creating an instant rarity in the coin collecting world.
The Challenge of Authenticity
Due to its considerable value and high collector demand, the 1909-S VDB penny has become one of the most frequently counterfeited American coins. Forgers employ various techniques to create convincing fakes, including altering genuine 1909 VDB pennies (without the S mint mark) by adding the S, or modifying other Lincoln cents to resemble this valuable variety. For this reason, authentication by professional grading services like Professional Coin Grading Service (PCGS) or Numismatic Guaranty Corporation (NGC) is essential for anyone who believes they’ve discovered this rare coin. These experts examine minute details including the precise positioning of the mint mark, the spacing and appearance of the VDB initials, and other subtle characteristics that distinguish genuine examples from sophisticated counterfeits.
Factors Affecting Value
The market value of a 1909-S VDB Lincoln cent varies dramatically based on its condition. Numismatists use a standardized grading scale that ranges from Poor (heavily worn) to Mint State (pristine, uncirculated condition). Even in relatively worn condition, these pennies command impressive prices, often selling for hundreds to several thousand dollars. However, the value increases exponentially for specimens in higher grades. The most desirable examples are those in high Mint State grades that retain their original reddish copper color, designated as “RD” in grading terminology. These exceptional coins represent the pinnacle of preservation and can command extraordinary prices at auction.
Record-Breaking Auction Results
The tremendous collector demand for top-quality 1909-S VDB pennies has resulted in some remarkable auction prices. In April 2022, a spectacular example graded MS67RD (nearly perfect condition with full original red color) sold for an astonishing $168,000. This price, equivalent to 16.8 million times the coin’s face value, demonstrates the exceptional premium that collectors place on the finest preserved specimens. Such results highlight how a small copper coin originally worth just one cent can transform into an investment-grade asset worth more than many homes or luxury automobiles.
The Enduring Appeal to Collectors
What makes the 1909-S VDB penny particularly appealing to collectors is its position as a “key date” in the Lincoln cent series. For those attempting to assemble a complete collection of Lincoln Wheat pennies (produced from 1909 to 1958), this coin represents one of the most challenging and expensive acquisitions. Its historical significance as part of the first year of Lincoln cent production, combined with its genuine scarcity and the compelling story behind the designer’s removed initials, creates a perfect storm of collector interest. For many serious numismatists, acquiring an authentic 1909-S VDB penny represents a significant milestone in their collecting journey.
A Lasting Legacy in American Numismatics
More than a century after its creation, the 1909-S VDB Lincoln penny continues to fascinate collectors and capture the imagination of anyone interested in rare coins. Its enduring popularity serves as a reminder that sometimes extraordinary value can be found in the most common denominations. While few people will ever discover this rare treasure in their pocket change, the possibility, however remote, adds an element of excitement to the hobby of coin collecting that few other pursuits can match. Whether valued for its historical significance, its genuine rarity, or its impressive monetary worth, the 1909-S VDB Lincoln penny remains one of the most celebrated coins in American numismatic history.