1909-S VDB Penny – In a heartwarming twist of fate, a family recently discovered a small fortune hidden in an old jar that once belonged to their late grandmother. Tucked among everyday coins was a 1909-S VDB Lincoln penny — one of the rarest and most sought-after coins in U.S. history. That single penny just sold for a staggering $138,000 at a recent auction, sending shockwaves through the numismatic world and giving hope to countless Americans who have jars, drawers, or piggy banks filled with old change. The story has reignited public interest in rare coin collecting and left many wondering if they, too, might be unknowingly sitting on a goldmine. Let’s explore what makes the 1909-S VDB penny so valuable, how to identify one, and what lessons you can learn from this incredible find.
Why the 1909-S VDB Penny Is So Valuable
This coin isn’t just rare — it’s legendary. The 1909-S VDB Lincoln cent was the first U.S. penny to feature President Abraham Lincoln and marked a significant change in American currency design. Here’s why it’s worth so much:
- Minted in San Francisco (hence the “S” mintmark)
- Only 484,000 were ever made — an extremely low mintage
- Features the initials “VDB” (for designer Victor David Brenner) on the reverse
- Removed shortly after release due to public controversy over initials
- Considered a “Holy Grail” for penny collectors
Key Features to Spot a Real 1909-S VDB Penny
Before you run to check your change jar, make sure you know what to look for. These details help confirm authenticity:
| Feature | Description |
|---|---|
| Obverse Design | Lincoln portrait facing right |
| Reverse Design | Two wheat stalks, “ONE CENT” in center |
| Mintmark | Small “S” under the date (bottom front) |
| Initials “V.D.B.” | Found at the bottom center on the reverse side |
| Weight | 3.11 grams |
| Metal Composition | 95% copper, 5% tin and zinc |
| Diameter | 19 mm |
How the Family Found the Penny and Sold It for $138,000
The penny was discovered by a woman cleaning out her grandmother’s belongings after her passing. She found an old mason jar full of pennies from the early 1900s to the 1970s.
What Happened Next:
- She took the coins to a local appraiser.
- The appraiser immediately spotted the 1909-S VDB.
- The coin was authenticated and graded MS-65 Red by PCGS.
- It was listed at auction with a base price of $50,000.
- After intense bidding, the final sale reached $138,000.
Other Rare Pennies You Should Look Out For
Not every valuable penny is from 1909. Keep an eye out for these high-value coins too:
| Year & Type | Value Range | Why It’s Valuable |
|---|---|---|
| 1943 Copper Penny | $100,000 – $1.7 million | Accidental copper strike during steel era |
| 1955 Doubled Die Penny | $800 – $10,000 | Strong double image on date and lettering |
| 1914-D Lincoln Penny | $200 – $5,000 | Low mintage from Denver |
| 1922 No D Penny | $500 – $10,000+ | Missing mintmark from worn die |
| 1972 Doubled Die Penny | $300 – $3,500 | Obvious doubling on date and text |
Tips for Checking and Selling Your Old Coins
If you think you may have a rare coin, here’s how to handle it:
Do’s:
- Use gloves when handling to avoid oils damaging the surface.
- Look under bright light or use a magnifying glass to spot details.
- Check online resources like PCGS or NGC for images.
- Visit a certified coin dealer or get a second opinion before selling.
- Get it graded by a reputable service like PCGS or NGC.
Don’ts:
- Don’t clean the coin — it reduces value.
- Don’t sell it without knowing its worth.
- Don’t assume it’s fake without a professional review.
This story is more than just a lucky break — it’s a reminder that treasures can hide in the most unexpected places. Whether it’s a mason jar, a dusty drawer, or a forgotten piggy bank, your own stash of coins could hold life-changing surprises. Rare coins like the 1909-S VDB penny are not just historical artifacts — they’re opportunities. So the next time you’re about to dump your spare change, think twice.
FAQs
Q1. What does “VDB” mean on the 1909 penny?
A1. It stands for Victor David Brenner, the designer of the Lincoln cent.
Q2. How many 1909-S VDB pennies exist today?
A2. Estimates suggest fewer than 50,000 are in collectible condition.
Q3. Where should I get a coin like this appraised?
A3. Visit a certified coin dealer or services like PCGS or NGC.
Q4. Is the 1909 VDB without the “S” also valuable?
A4. Yes, but not as much — it’s more common and typically worth under $100.
Q5. Can I sell a coin without grading it?
A5. Yes, but grading significantly increases trust and final value.
