1909-S VDB Lincoln Penny Value
1909 · 1¢ · 95% copper 5% tin+zinc
Value by Grade
| Grade | Est. Value |
|---|---|
| Poor (P-1) | $800.00 |
| Good (G-4) | $1,100 |
| Fine (F-12) | $1,500 |
| Uncirculated (MS-63) | $2,500 |
| Gem (MS-65) | $7,500 |
| Perfect (MS-70) | $37,500 |
Key Dates & Rare Varieties
| Date/Variety | Why It's Special | Value Range |
|---|---|---|
| 1909-S | VDB on reverse, only 484,000 minted before initials removed | $800–$2,500 |
| 1909-S | No VDB variety also scarce with 1.83 million minted | $80–$400 |
| 1909 | Philadelphia VDB, common but popular as first-year type coin | $8–$25 |
Coin Specifications
- Designer
- Victor D. Brenner
- Years
- 1909
- Denomination
- 1¢
- Composition
- 95% copper 5% tin+zinc
- Diameter
- 19 mm
- Weight
- 3.11 g
Quick Value
Where to Buy/Sell
1909-S VDB Lincoln Penny: History & Background
The 1909-S VDB is the most famous key date in the entire Lincoln cent series. When the Lincoln cent debuted in August 1909 to mark the centennial of Lincoln's birth, designer Victor David Brenner's initials V.D.B. appeared prominently on the reverse. Public outcry over the conspicuous initials led the Mint to remove them after only a few days of production. The San Francisco mint struck just 484,000 examples before the change, compared to 28 million from Philadelphia, making the 1909-S VDB a cornerstone coin for any serious collection.
How to Grade a 1909-S VDB Lincoln Penny
Accurate grading is the single most important factor in determining a coin's value. A difference of just a few grade points can mean 10× or more in value. Examine the highest points of the design first — these are where wear appears earliest. For the finest grades, luster, strike quality, and surface preservation all matter. Professional grading by PCGS or NGC adds certainty and typically increases resale value. Read our complete grading guide →