The 1909-S VDB Lincoln Penny: Why It’s Worth $100,000 – And 5 Other Key Date Coins

The 1909-S VDB Lincoln Penny stands as one of the most coveted coins among collectors, with pristine specimens fetching prices upwards of $100,000. Its rarity and historical significance contribute to its high value.

In this article, we will delve into the factors that make this coin so valuable and explore five other key date coins that are highly sought after in the numismatic community.

The 1909-S VDB Lincoln Penny: A Closer Look

Design and Controversy

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In 1909, to commemorate the centennial of President Abraham Lincoln’s birth, the U.S. Mint introduced the Lincoln cent, designed by Victor David Brenner.

Brenner’s initials, “VDB,” were prominently displayed on the reverse of the coin. However, public criticism over the conspicuous placement of these initials led to their abrupt removal, resulting in a limited number of coins bearing the “VDB” inscription.

Rarity and Mintage

The San Francisco Mint produced only 484,000 of these coins before the initials were removed, making the 1909-S VDB penny particularly scarce. This low mintage is a primary factor in its desirability among collectors.

Current Market Value

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The value of a 1909-S VDB Lincoln Penny varies based on its condition:

Note: Values are approximate and can fluctuate based on market demand.

Five Other Key Date Coins Worth Noting

1. 1914-D Lincoln Cent– Mintage and RarityMinted in Denver, the 1914-D Lincoln Cent had a mintage of 1,193,000 coins. Its low mintage and high attrition rate make it a key date for collectors.Estimated ValueIn Good (G-4) condition, it can fetch around $200, while specimens in Mint State (MS-65) can command prices upwards of $28,000.
2. 1922 No D Lincoln Cent– Mintage and RarityDue to a die error at the Denver Mint, some 1922 cents were produced without the “D” mintmark. This anomaly makes it a significant rarity.Estimated ValueValues range from $500 in Good (G-4) condition to over $30,000 in Mint State (MS-65).
3. 1931-S Lincoln Cent– Mintage and RarityWith a mintage of only 866,000, the 1931-S is one of the lowest mintage coins in the Lincoln series.Estimated ValuePrices range from $100 in Good (G-4) condition to $1,000 or more in Mint State (MS-65).
4. 1955 Doubled Die Obverse Lincoln Cent– Mintage and RarityA striking error resulted in a noticeable doubling of the date and inscriptions on the obverse, making this coin highly sought after.Estimated ValueIn Good (G-4) condition, it can be valued at $1,500, with Mint State (MS-65) examples reaching $25,000 or more.
5. 1877 Indian Head Cent– Mintage and RarityThe 1877 Indian Head Cent had a low mintage of 852,500, and many were lost to circulation, increasing its scarcity.Estimated ValueValues range from $900 in Good (G-4) condition to over $10,000 in Mint State (MS-65).

The allure of key date coins like the 1909-S VDB Lincoln Penny lies in their combination of historical significance, rarity, and the stories they tell. For collectors, these coins represent not just monetary value but also a tangible connection to the past.

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Whether you’re a seasoned numismatist or a novice, understanding the factors that contribute to a coin’s value can enhance the joy and potential profitability of coin collecting.

FAQs

Why is the 1909-S VDB Lincoln Penny so valuable?

Its value stems from its low mintage of 484,000 coins and the historical context of the “VDB” initials controversy, making it a key date for collectors.

What defines a ‘key date’ coin?

A key date coin is one that is particularly scarce or significant within a series, often due to low mintage numbers or unique historical factors.

How can I determine the value of my coin?

The value is influenced by factors such as rarity, demand, and condition. Consulting a reputable coin grading service or price guide can provide an accurate assessment.