The 1909 S VDB Lincoln cent is a highly prized coin in the series of Lincoln, Wheat reverse (Bronze) coins minted from 1909 to 1958. Struck in San Francisco, it features the initials “VDB” of its designer, Victor David Brenner, on the reverse. Initially controversial, the VDB initials were later removed due to public outcry, resulting in a low mintage of only 484,000 coins.
Despite its low mintage, the 1909 S VDB cent is still relatively available today, often found at large coin shows. However, it remains a sought-after piece among Lincoln cent enthusiasts, considered by many as a numismatic treasure. Collectors value it, especially in uncirculated grades, with examples above MS65RD becoming increasingly scarce. MS66RD grades are particularly challenging to find, and coins in MS67RD or higher are exceedingly rare and command high prices in the market.
History Of 1909 S VDB Lincoln Cent
In 1909, the U.S. Mint celebrated the 100th anniversary of Abraham Lincoln’s birth by introducing a new penny design featuring Lincoln’s image, a departure from the traditional Lady Liberty depiction. Designed by Victor David Brenner, the coin included Brenner’s initials “V.D.B.” on the back. This caused controversy, seen by some as self-promotion, leading the Mint to quickly remove the initials from later editions.
This decision resulted in two versions of the 1909 penny: a rare batch with “V.D.B.” and a more common version without. The incident sparked debates on artists’ signatures on public works, highlighting the intersection of numismatics and art. The San Francisco Mint also issued a limited variant with the “S” mintmark and “V.D.B.” inscription, further contributing to its rarity.
The 1909-S VDB Lincoln cent reflects key moments in U.S. history, illustrating controversies and discussions over artistic values. It remains a cherished item among coin collectors, blending art, history, and craftsmanship into a single piece.
Specifications
- Country: United States of America
- Year of Issue: 1909
- Denomination: One Cent (USD)
- Mintmark: S (San Francisco)
- Mintage: 484,000
- Alloy: 95% Copper, 5% Tin and Zinc
- Weight: 3.11 grams
- Diameter: 19.00 mm
- Edge: Plain
- Obverse Designer: Victor David Brenner
- Reverse Designer: Victor David Brenner
- Quality: Business Strike
Basic Design
Obverse:
Abraham Lincoln’s bust has the words IN GOD WE TRUST around it on the top edge. The date and mintmark, if any, are on the right side of the portrait, with the word LIBERTY to the left.
Reverse:
“ONE CENT, UNITED STATES OF AMERICA” with two sets of elevated ears surrounding it. On the upper edge is the motto E PLURIBUS UNUM. On the lower edge, the designer’s initials, V.D.B., are visible.
Rarity and Condition
With a mintage of only 484,000, the 1909 S VDB Lincoln Cent is one of the rarest business strike issues in the Lincoln Cent series. Collectors prize examples in Red (RD) uncirculated grades, with specimens above MS65RD becoming increasingly scarce. Coins graded MS66RD or higher are particularly rare, with MS67RD examples commanding significant premiums due to their pristine condition and original mint luster.
Value Of 1909 S VDB Lincoln Cent
The market value of the 1909 S VDB Lincoln Cent has escalated over time, reflecting its scarcity and historical appeal. Early hoarding and collector demand have contributed to its status as a numismatic treasure. Pristine examples in high grades fetch substantial sums at auctions, with MS67RD specimens reaching six-figure prices due to their exceptional rarity and desirability among collectors.
Controversy
The controversy surrounding the 1909 S VDB Lincoln Cent revolves around Brenner’s initials, which were perceived as overly prominent on a national coin. Public outcry led to their removal shortly after the coin’s release, setting a precedent for future coin designs and artist attributions in U.S. numismatics. This episode highlighted tensions between artistic expression and institutional norms within the Mint.
Mintage
Production at the San Francisco Mint yielded only 484,000 examples of the 1909 S VDB Lincoln Cent before the removal of Brenner’s initials. Identified by specific mintmark placement and serif details on the letters, genuine coins are scrutinized by numismatists for authenticity, contributing to their collectible allure.
Also Read – The 1901 S Barber Quarter: A Numismatic Rarity
Conclusion
The 1909-S VDB Lincoln Cent remains an icon of American coinage, cherished for its historical significance, rarity, and enduring appeal among collectors. Its journey from controversy to collectibility underscores the rich tapestry of U.S. numismatics, making it a cornerstone in any comprehensive collection of Lincoln cents.
This comprehensive guide illuminates the 1909-S VDB Lincoln Cent’s legacy as a numismatic treasure, bridging art, history, and collector passion across generations.