1909 VDB Wheat Penny Value
In 1904 U.S. President Theodore Roosevelt determined that US coins needed more artistry and sought to hire sculptors to reinvent the currency. The project to change the cent and four gold pieces took several years and eventually it was the 1909 centennial of U.S. President Abraham Lincoln’s birth that led to the choice of his profile to be on the face of the coin. Continue reading to learn more about 1909 VDB Penny Value.
AUCTION RECORD: $4,830 • MS62
Image source: PCGS
1909 VDB Penny Design
The U.S. one cent coin from 1909-1958 is known as the “Wheat Penny.” This cent features the profile of Lincoln on the face. The reverse of the coin features two heads of wheat and the text, “E Pluribus Unum; One Cent; United States of America.” Sculptor Victor D. Brenner designed the coin and is said to have taken inspiration for Lincoln’s image from a 1864 portrait of Lincoln reading to his son, wanting the former President to seem at his brightest.
The new US one cent piece was struck at both the Philadelphia and the San Francisco mint. The 1909 Wheat Penny (VDB) in particular was struck in Philadelphia and bears no mint mark at all. It does bear the engraved initials of the designer on the reverse of the coin: “V.D.B.” The large mintage of this coin makes it rather common, unlike some of its sister coins from the same year, which may or may not bear a mint mark or Brenner’s initials, depending on the location where they were minted.
1909 VDB Penny Value
1909 VDB penny value varies widely based on its condition and mint mark, ranging from about $12 to thousands of dollars. The most expensive 1909 VDB penny on record was a 1909 S VDB penny in red condition, graded MS67, which sold for approximately $175,000. This high value is attributed to its exceptional condition, rarity, and the high demand among collectors for this specific mint mark and quality.
Type of coin: Penny
Year: 1909 Wheat Penny (VDB)
Mint Mark: none
Total mintage: 27,995,000
Metal content: 95% copper, 5% tin and zinc
Face value: One Cent
Weight: 3.11 grams
Diameter: 19 millimeters
FAQ
What is the 1909 VDB penny value?
The value of a 1909 VDB penny varies widely based on its condition and mint mark, ranging from about $12 in circulated condition to over $150,000 for mint state examples from the San Francisco mint (S VDB).
How can I identify a 1909 VDB penny?
A 1909 VDB penny can be identified by the VDB initials on the reverse side of the coin, located at the bottom.
What makes the 1909 S VDB penny highly valuable?
The 1909 S VDB penny is highly valuable due to its low mintage of 484,000 and its historical significance, making it a rare and sought-after coin among collectors.
What is the difference between the 1909 P VDB and 1909 S VDB pennies?
The main difference is the mint mark: "P" for Philadelphia (no mint mark) and "S" for San Francisco. The San Francisco version (S VDB) is much rarer and more valuable.
How does the coin’s condition affect the 1909 VDB penny value?
The coin’s condition significantly affects its value, with uncirculated (mint state) coins being worth much more than those in circulated conditions.
What are the color variations in 1909 VDB pennies, and how do they impact value?
1909 VDB pennies come in red, brown, and red-brown colors. Red coins are generally more valuable than brown and red-brown ones.
What is the value of a 1909 P VDB penny in mint condition?
A 1909 P VDB penny in mint condition can be worth up to $25,000, depending on its color and grade.
Are there any rare errors in 1909 VDB pennies?
Yes, there are rare errors like the Double-Die Obverse and Offset errors, which can significantly increase the value of the coin.
What is the history behind the 1909 VDB penny?
The 1909 VDB penny was created to commemorate Abraham Lincoln's 100th birthday, and the initials VDB come from the coin’s designer, Victor D. Brenner.
How much is a 1909 S VDB penny worth in fine condition?
In fine condition, a 1909 S VDB penny can be worth around $1,100 and more.
What is the significance of the VDB initials on the penny?
The VDB initials represent the designer, Victor David Brenner, and were controversial at the time due to their prominent size, leading to their removal in later mintings.
How does the mint mark affect the 1909 VDB penny’s value?
The mint mark significantly affects the penny’s value, with the S (San Francisco) mint mark being far more valuable than the P (Philadelphia) due to its lower mintage and higher demand.
What are the grading scales for 1909 VDB pennies?
The grading scales range from Basal State-1 to Mint State-70, with higher grades indicating better condition and higher value.
Can the 1909 VDB penny still be found in circulation?
While it's possible, it's extremely rare to find a 1909 VDB penny in circulation today, as most are kept by collectors.
Where can I sell my 1909 VDB penny?
Selling can be done through reputable coin dealers such as Bullion Shark, auctions, online marketplaces, or coin collecting forums, with the value depending on the coin’s condition, rarity, and market demand.
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