– The 1909-S VDB Lincoln Penny: Why It’s So Coveted by Collector
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The world of coin collecting is filled with fascinating rarities, and few are as iconic or as sought after as the 1909-S VDB Lincoln Penny. This small copper coin, minted over a century ago, holds an outsized reputation among numismatists and casual collectors alike.
But what is it that makes this penny so valuable and beloved? To understand its appeal, we must delve into its historical significance, limited mintage, and the controversy surrounding its production.
The 1909-S VDB penny marked the introduction of the Lincoln cent, the first U.S. coin to feature a real historical figure rather than allegorical imagery. Designed by Victor David Brenner, the coin commemorated the 100th anniversary of President Abraham Lincoln’s birth.
Adding to the coin’s uniqueness, Brenner included his initials “VDB” prominently on the reverse, at the bottom center near the rim.
While this signature was meant as a nod to the artist, its placement drew immediate criticism. Many deemed it too bold and inappropriate, sparking public backlash. The U.S. Mint quickly ordered the removal of the initials, creating an extremely limited run of pennies with “VDB” visible.
he rarity of the 1909-S VDB penny is one of the primary reasons for its high value. Produced at the San Francisco Mint, only 484,000 coins were struck before the “VDB” initials were removed.
Coins minted in San Francisco carry the “S” mintmark, further distinguishing them from their Philadelphia counterparts. The combination of the “S” mintmark and the “VDB” initials makes the 1909-S VDB penny an unparalleled collector’s item.
The controversy surrounding Brenner’s initials only adds to the allure of this coin. In the early 20th century, public sentiment about what was considered appropriate on U.S. currency was highly conservative. The debate over Brenner’s initials serves as a historical snapshot of societal attitudes at the time.