When it comes to rare and collectible coins, few are as iconic—or potentially valuable—as the VDB Lincoln Cent. Named after its designer, Victor David Brenner, the VDB pennies have fascinated collectors for over a century. While some versions are common, others are exceptionally rare and worth thousands—even hundreds of thousands—of dollars. Here are three specific VDB pennies that might be sitting in your coin jar and could make you very wealthy soon.
1. 1909-S VDB Lincoln Cent
The 1909-S VDB penny is the holy grail of Lincoln cents. It was minted in San Francisco with Brenner’s initials “V.D.B.” boldly placed on the reverse. However, due to public backlash over the prominence of the initials, production was halted early, and only 484,000 coins were made—making it one of the rarest Lincoln cents in existence.
In high grades, this coin can sell for $2,000 to over $50,000, with proof-like and mint condition versions fetching far more. If you spot a 1909 penny with an “S” mint mark below the date and “V.D.B.” on the back near the rim—have it authenticated immediately.
2. 1909 VDB Lincoln Cent (Philadelphia Mint)
While not as rare as the 1909-S version, the 1909 VDB penny without a mint mark was the very first Lincoln cent ever issued and remains highly collectible. Over 27 million were minted in Philadelphia, but uncirculated and high-grade versions still command a premium.
Collectors value this penny because it marks the beginning of the Lincoln cent series and was part of President Theodore Roosevelt’s coin beautification program. A mint-state version (graded MS-65 or higher) can sell for $100 to $1,500, depending on the condition and the market.
3. Counterfeit or Altered VDB Pennies
Surprisingly, fake 1909-S VDB pennies are so common that spotting one is almost an art form. Some are altered from common 1909 or 1909-S cents by adding the initials or mint mark. While these coins have no real collector value, a verified counterfeit can sometimes be a collector’s item in itself due to historical curiosity.
Always get your VDB penny authenticated by a trusted grading service like PCGS or NGC to ensure you’re holding the real deal.
VDB pennies are more than just pocket change—they’re pieces of history that can be worth thousands of dollars. Whether it’s the ultra-rare 1909-S VDB or a pristine 1909 Philadelphia version, these coins have incredible value among collectors. If you come across any VDB penny, don’t overlook it. You might be just one coin away from a financial surprise.
FAQ’s:
1. What does VDB stand for on a penny?
VDB are the initials of Victor David Brenner, the original designer of the Lincoln cent.
2. How can I tell if my VDB penny is valuable?
Check for the mint mark “S” and the initials “V.D.B.” on the reverse. Authentic 1909-S VDB pennies are the most valuable.
3. Are all VDB pennies rare?
No. Only the 1909-S VDB is extremely rare. The 1909 VDB from Philadelphia is common but still collectible in high grades.
4. Where should I get my penny authenticated?
Use trusted grading services like PCGS (Professional Coin Grading Service) or NGC (Numismatic Guaranty Company).
5. Can VDB pennies still be found in circulation?
It’s very rare, but yes—some have been discovered in old collections, estate sales, or even pocket change.
