The Lincoln penny, a well-known piece of American currency, has been around since 1909. One of its rarest versions, the 1909-S VDB Lincoln penny, is highly valued by collectors, sometimes fetching impressive prices.
In 2023, a particularly well-preserved 1909-S VDB penny sold for $3,960 at auction. What makes this penny so valuable? Let’s take a closer look at its history, design, and the factors that influence its price.
Understanding the 1909-S VDB Lincoln Penny
The 1909-S VDB Lincoln penny is special because of its design and history. It was designed by artist Victor David Brenner. The initial version of the penny included Brenner’s initials, “V.D.B.,” on the reverse side. However, after people criticized the prominence of these initials, the U.S. Mint decided to remove them quickly. As a result, only 484,000 of these coins were made in San Francisco, making them rare and valuable.
The Significance of ‘Red’ Tones in Lincoln Pennies
In coin collecting, the term “red” refers to the original reddish-orange color of a freshly minted copper coin. Over time, copper pennies change color to brown because of exposure to air. However, if a penny retains at least 95% of its original red color, it is considered “Red” (RD) and is worth more. The redder a coin, the higher its value, as it shows that the coin has been well-preserved.
Auction Highlights: The $3,960 Sale
In August 2023, a 1909-S VDB Lincoln penny with a grade of MS-64 RB (Red-Brown) was sold for an amazing $3,960 at Stack’s Bowers auction. The coin’s high value was due to its sharp details and impressive red-brown coloration, which made it a highly sought-after item for collectors.
Factors Influencing the Value of Lincoln Pennies
The value of a Lincoln penny depends on several factors:
- Mintage and Rarity: Coins that are rare, like the 1909-S VDB penny, are more valuable.
- Condition and Grade: Coins are graded on a scale from 1 to 70. The higher the grade, the better the condition. A grade of MS-64 means the coin is in excellent condition with few flaws.
- Color Designation: Coins that retain their red color are considered more valuable than those that have turned brown.
- Historical Significance: Coins with interesting history, like the story behind the removal of the V.D.B. initials, attract more interest from collectors.
Key Details of the 1909-S VDB Lincoln Penny
| Feature | Description |
|---|---|
| Designer | Victor David Brenner |
| Mint Mark | S (San Francisco) |
| Mintage | 484,000 coins |
| Composition | 95% Copper, 5% Tin and Zinc |
| Weight | 3.11 grams |
| Diameter | 19.05 mm |
| Thickness | 1.52 mm |
| Notable Feature | “V.D.B.” initials on the reverse |
| Auction Sale Price | $3,960 (August 2023) |
| Grade | MS-64 RB (Red-Brown) |
Tips for Collectors
If you want to collect or preserve valuable coins like the 1909-S VDB penny, here are some tips:
- Preservation: Store coins in a cool, dry place to prevent oxidation and preserve their original color.
- Authentication: Get your coins graded by trusted services like PCGS or NGC to confirm their authenticity and condition.
- Research: Keep up with coin market trends and recent auction results to stay informed about the value of your collection.
The 1909-S VDB Lincoln penny is more than just a coin; it’s a piece of history. With its unique design, limited production, and lasting appeal among collectors, it can be worth thousands of dollars. If you’re interested in coin collecting, this penny is one to watch closely.
1. Why is the 1909-S VDB Lincoln penny so valuable?
The penny is rare because only 484,000 were made, and it has historical significance due to the controversy over the designer’s initials.
2. What does “Red” mean in coin collecting?
“Red” refers to a coin that has kept 95% of its original reddish-orange color, which makes it more valuable to collectors.
3. How do you know if a coin is valuable?
The value depends on its rarity, condition, and historical significance. Coins that are well-preserved and rare are worth more.
4. How are coins graded?
Coins are graded on a scale from 1 to 70. Higher numbers mean better condition, and coins with high grades are more valuable.
5. Can I sell my 1909-S VDB penny?
Yes, if you have a well-preserved penny, you can sell it at coin auctions or to collectors who are interested in rare coins.
