The 1909-S VDB Lincoln Wheat Penny is one of the most coveted and valuable coins in American numismatics. As the first Lincoln Cent ever minted, its low mintage, historical significance, and controversial design have made it a prized rarity among collectors. With demand remaining high and auction prices soaring, this coin is widely regarded as one of the most essential pieces for any serious collection.
This guide will explore the origins of the Lincoln Cent series, details about its designer, mintage, specifications, appeal, and value, along with recent auction records that highlight its continued numismatic prestige.
Before 1909, U.S. coins primarily featured symbolic representations of Liberty rather than real historical figures. However, to commemorate the 100th anniversary of Abraham Lincoln’s birth, President Theodore Roosevelt sought to modernize U.S. coin designs and honor one of America’s greatest leaders.
The Lincoln Cent replaced the Indian Head Cent, which had been in circulation since 1859. Roosevelt’s push for artistic innovation led to the selection of Victor David Brenner, a highly regarded sculptor and medalist, to design the new penny.
Upon its release in August 1909, the Lincoln Cent was met with immense public enthusiasm. However, controversy quickly arose over Brenner’s initials (VDB), which were prominently displayed on the reverse of the coin. Critics argued that the initials were too large and overly conspicuous, prompting the U.S. Mint to remove them from later issues. This decision resulted in a limited run of 1909-S VDB cents, instantly making them one of the rarest Lincoln Cents ever struck.
Victor David Brenner, a Lithuanian-born sculptor and engraver, was chosen by Roosevelt due to his exceptional work in portrait medals and sculptures. Brenner’s admiration for Lincoln stemmed from the ideals of freedom and opportunity that drew many immigrants to the United States.
His design for the Lincoln Cent remains largely unchanged for over a century, making it one of the most enduring coin designs in U.S. history. The original reverse design, featuring two wheat stalks encircling “ONE CENT”, was used until 1959, when it was replaced by the Lincoln Memorial design.
While Brenner’s VDB initials were removed in late 1909, they were later reinstated in 1918, appearing in a smaller size on Lincoln’s shoulder, where they remain to this day.
The 1909-S VDB Lincoln Wheat Penny was minted at the San Francisco Mint and saw limited production before the design was altered. Below are the key specifications:
With only 484,000 coins struck, the 1909-S VDB penny remains one of the lowest-mintage Lincoln Cents ever produced. Many of these coins were heavily circulated, making well-preserved examples even more desirable.
With just 484,000 coins produced, this San Francisco Mint issue has one of the lowest mintage figures in Lincoln Cent history. By comparison, the Philadelphia Mint struck over 27 million VDB pennies in the same year.
As the first year of issue for the Lincoln Cent series, this coin carries immense historical value. Its connection to President Lincoln, Theodore Roosevelt’s coinage reform, and the introduction of real historical figures on U.S. currency makes it an iconic collectible.
Brenner placed his VDB initials on the reverse of the Lincoln Cent, nestled between the wheat stalks. The large size of these initials led to public backlash, prompting the U.S. Mint to quickly remove them, making the S-mint VDB variety one of the rarest and most valuable Lincoln Cents.
Every collector who builds a complete set of Lincoln Cents needs the 1909-S VDB penny, making it a key date coin. Its scarcity and historical appeal drive continued demand, pushing prices higher.
Because of its extreme rarity, the 1909-S VDB Lincoln Penny consistently commands high prices at auction.
The 1909-S VDB Lincoln Wheat Penny is more than just a collectible—it is a cornerstone of U.S. numismatic history. With its low mintage, unique design controversy, and enduring collector demand, it remains one of the most sought-after Lincoln Cents ever struck.
For those looking to own a piece of American history, the 1909-S VDB Lincoln Penny stands as an undisputed masterpiece, representing over a century of numismatic excellence. Whether you’re a seasoned collector or a new investor, this coin is a trophy piece that will only continue to rise in both prestige and value.