When it comes to rare and collectible coins, few have the same iconic status—or potential value—as the VDB Lincoln Cent. Named after its designer, Victor David Brenner, these pennies have captivated coin collectors for over a century. While some VDB pennies are fairly common, others are exceedingly rare and can fetch tens of thousands—even hundreds of thousands—of dollars. Below are three specific VDB pennies that could be hiding in your coin jar right now, possibly making you a wealthy individual.
1. 1909-S VDB Lincoln Cent
The 1909-S VDB Lincoln Cent is considered the holy grail of Lincoln pennies. Minted in San Francisco, this coin features Brenner’s initials “V.D.B.” prominently placed on the reverse. However, due to public backlash over the prominence of the initials, production was halted early, resulting in only 484,000 coins being made. This makes it one of the rarest and most coveted Lincoln cents in existence.
In high grades, the 1909-S VDB can fetch anywhere from $2,000 to over $50,000. Mint-condition versions, especially those in proof-like or uncirculated condition, can reach even higher prices. If you come across a 1909 penny with an “S” mint mark below the date and “V.D.B.” near the rim on the reverse, have it authenticated immediately—this coin could be worth a small fortune.
2. 1909 VDB Lincoln Cent (Philadelphia Mint)
While not as rare as the 1909-S VDB, the 1909 VDB penny minted in Philadelphia is still highly collectible. It was the first Lincoln cent ever issued and holds special significance as part of President Theodore Roosevelt’s coin beautification program. A total of over 27 million of these coins were minted, but high-grade, uncirculated versions are still valued by collectors.
A mint-state 1909 VDB penny, especially those graded MS-65 or higher, can sell for anywhere between $100 and $1,500. This coin represents the beginning of the Lincoln cent series, and its historical significance contributes to its ongoing appeal.
3. Counterfeit or Altered VDB Pennies
It’s important to be aware that the 1909-S VDB penny is so valuable that counterfeit versions are common. Some fake pennies are altered from more common 1909 or 1909-S cents by adding the “V.D.B.” initials or mint mark. While these coins hold no real collector value, they can occasionally become collectors’ items in their own right, particularly when verified as historical forgeries.
If you suspect that your VDB penny might be counterfeit or altered, always have it authenticated by a trusted professional grading service like PCGS or NGC. This will help you determine its authenticity and give you peace of mind about its value.
Why VDB Pennies Are So Valuable
VDB pennies are more than just coins—they’re pieces of American history that have become highly sought after by collectors. The 1909-S VDB, in particular, stands out for its rarity and the controversy surrounding the placement of the designer’s initials. Even though some VDB pennies are more common, they still hold significant value, especially in pristine, uncirculated condition.
If you come across a VDB penny, don’t overlook it. With some careful inspection and proper authentication, you could be holding onto a rare and highly valuable coin.
VDB Lincoln Cents are more than just old pennies—they are pieces of American history with the potential to be worth thousands, or even tens of thousands, of dollars. Whether it’s the ultra-rare 1909-S VDB or the historically significant 1909 VDB from Philadelphia, these coins are a must-know for any serious coin collector. If you have one of these in your collection, make sure to get it properly authenticated—you might just have a hidden treasure in your hands.
FAQs
What does VDB stand for on a penny?
VDB stands for Victor David Brenner, the designer of the Lincoln Cent. His initials were placed on the reverse of the coin, which sparked controversy at the time.
How can I tell if my VDB penny is valuable?
Look for the mint mark “S” on the reverse of the coin and the initials “V.D.B.” near the rim. The 1909-S VDB penny is the most valuable, especially in uncirculated condition.
Are all VDB pennies rare?
No. While the 1909-S VDB is extremely rare, the 1909 VDB from Philadelphia is more common. However, the latter is still highly collectible, especially in high grades.
Where should I get my penny authenticated?
Use trusted grading services like PCGS (Professional Coin Grading Service) or NGC (Numismatic Guaranty Corporation) to authenticate and determine the value of your penny.
Can VDB pennies still be found in circulation?
It’s rare, but VDB pennies have occasionally been discovered in old collections, estate sales, or even pocket change.
