Introduction & Identification
The 1909 Lincoln Wheat Penny represents one of the most pivotal moments in American numismatic history, marking the centennial of Abraham Lincoln’s birth and the first appearance of a historical figure on regular-issue U.S. coinage. Designed by Lithuanian-born sculptor Victor David Brenner, this iconic one-cent piece was minted in three distinct varieties during its inaugural year: the Philadelphia (no mint mark), San Francisco (S), and the short-lived VDB (designer’s initials) variants.
The coin features Abraham Lincoln’s right-facing portrait on the obverse with “LIBERTY” to the left, the date “1909” to the right, and “IN GOD WE TRUST” above. The reverse displays two wheat stalks framing the denomination “ONE CENT” and “UNITED STATES OF AMERICA” with “E PLURIBUS UNUM” at the top.
| Variety | G-4 | VG-8 | F-12 | VF-20 | XF-40 | AU-50 | MS-63 (RB) | MS-65 (RD) | MS-67+ (RD) |
|---|---|---|---|---|---|---|---|---|---|
| 1909 | $2 | $2.50 | $3 | $4 | $8 | $15 | $40 | $135 | $8,000+ |
| 1909-S | $85 | $100 | $125 | $150 | $185 | $220 | $450 | $750 | $15,000+ |
| 1909 VDB | $12 | $15 | $20 | $28 | $35 | $45 | $175 | $250 | $4,000+ |
| 1909-S VDB | $650 | $750 | $900 | $1,100 | $1,500 | $2,000 | $4,500 | $8,000+ | $150,000+ |
Values sourced from PCGS Price Guide (April 2025) and recent Heritage Auctions realizations
Exact Specifications
| Specification | Details |
|---|---|
| Denomination | One Cent ($0.01) |
| Weight | 3.11 grams (±0.13g tolerance) |
| Diameter | 19.05 mm |
| Thickness | 1.55 mm |
| Composition | 95% copper, 5% tin and zinc |
| Edge Type | Plain (smooth) |
| Designer | Victor David Brenner |
| Obverse | Abraham Lincoln bust facing right |
| Reverse | Two wheat stalks (“Wheat Cent”) |
Production Method: Struck on high-speed steam-powered coining presses at the Philadelphia and San Francisco Mints, utilizing specially prepared bronze planchets. Dies were created using the hub-and-die process at the Philadelphia Mint, with working dies then shipped to branch mints as needed.
Obverse (Front) – 1909 Wheat Penny
Features a right-facing portrait of Abraham Lincoln, designed by Victor David Brenner. The inscriptions include “IN GOD WE TRUST” along the top edge, “LIBERTY” to the left of Lincoln, and the date “1909” to the right. If present, the mintmark appears below the date.
Reverse (Back) – 1909 Wheat Penny
Displays two wheat stalks flanking the denomination “ONE CENT” and the inscription “UNITED STATES OF AMERICA.” The motto “E PLURIBUS UNUM” arches along the top edge. At the bottom center, the designer’s initials “V.D.B.” are prominently placed between the wheat stalks.
Mintage & Historical Context
| Variety | Mintage | Notes |
|---|---|---|
| 1909 (Philadelphia) | 72,702,618 | Standard issue, no mint mark |
| 1909-S (San Francisco) | 1,825,000 | Lower production due to branch mint capacity |
| 1909 VDB (Philadelphia) | 27,995,000 | Early production with designer’s initials |
| 1909-S VDB (San Francisco) | 484,000 | Lowest mintage of the four varieties |
The 1909 Lincoln cent generated immediate public interest when released on August 2, 1909, representing a dramatic departure from the Indian Head cent design that had been in circulation since 1859. The inclusion of designer Victor David Brenner’s initials “VDB” on the reverse sparked controversy almost immediately. Critics argued that the initials were too prominent, appearing along the lower rim of the reverse. After just three days, the VDB was removed by order of Mint Director Frank A. Leach, creating the now-famous 1909 VDB and 1909-S VDB varieties.
The San Francisco Mint began striking Lincoln cents only after Philadelphia had started production, receiving their dies later in the year. By the time the controversy erupted over Brenner’s initials, the San Francisco facility had struck only 484,000 VDB cents, creating what would become one of the most sought-after key dates in the Lincoln cent series and indeed in all of American numismatics.
Must Read: 1910 Wheat Penny Value: What’s Your Coin Worth Today?
1909 Lincoln Wheat Penny – Key Errors & Varieties
The very first Lincoln cent, struck in 1909, ushered in the Wheat reverse design and initially bore the bold “V.D.B.” initials of designer Victor Brenner on the reverse. That first run was halted after only a few days, making the 1909-VDB variety the crown jewel of the series and a magnet for error-hunters.
1909-VDB Doubled-Die Obverse
Under magnification, many 1909-VDB cents show doubling on Lincoln’s bust and the date—a true doubled die. Even modestly worn examples trade in the $150–$400 range, while top-graded pieces exceed $1,000 at auction.
Repunched Mint Mark (1909-S/S)
Early San Francisco strikes sometimes exhibit a faint secondary “S” punched over the original S, known as the horizontal S repunch (RPM). Collectors reward clearly defined examples with $100–$200 premiums over base values.
Off-Center Strikes
When the planchet shifts in the collar, up to 10 percent of Lincoln’s portrait can be missing along one edge. Such 1909 cents command $35–$80 depending on the degree of displacement.
Lamination & Split Planchet Flaws
Impurities or planchet preparation issues can cause layers to peel (lamination) or even separate partially (split planchet). Collectible examples of these surface-peel errors typically sell for $25–$75.
Grading Standards
G-4 (Good)
- Obverse: Lincoln’s profile is worn but fully outlined; LIBERTY partially visible
- Reverse: Wheat stalks outline visible, but internal details worn smooth
- Rim: Complete but may show significant wear
- Example: Evenly worn surfaces with light brown patina; date and mint mark (if applicable) must be fully legible
VG-8 (Very Good)
- Obverse: Some hair detail visible; LIBERTY partially visible with complete outline
- Reverse: Wheat stalks show slight interior detail
- Rim: Complete and distinct from the fields
- Example: All major design elements clearly outlined; Lincoln’s ear shows some detail
F-12 (Fine)
- Obverse: Hair strands partially separated; ear shows distinct inner detail
- Reverse: Wheat stalks show clear central lines
- Rim: Complete and prominent
- Example: Even wear across high points; IN GOD WE TRUST fully legible
VF-20 (Very Fine)
- Obverse: Hair shows clear strands; jacket lapel shows wear but clear definition
- Reverse: Wheat stalks show complete detail though worn on high points
- Rim: Sharp and complete
- Example: Moderate wear confined to highest relief areas; all lettering bold
XF-40 (Extremely Fine)
- Obverse: Hair strands mostly complete; slight wear on highest points
- Reverse: Wheat stalks nearly complete with minimal high-point wear
- Rim: Sharp and well-defined
- Example: Light even wear; some mint luster may remain in protected areas
AU-50 (About Uncirculated)
- Obverse: Very slight wear on highest points of hair and cheek
- Reverse: Wheat stalks complete with minimal friction
- Rim: Sharp and crisp
- Example: Approximately 50% of original mint luster present; high points show slight friction
MS-63 RB (Mint State, Red-Brown)
- Surface: No wear, moderate contact marks or small clusters of marks
- Luster: Strong cartwheel luster with 40-60% original red color
- Strike: Full design details with possible weakness at centers
- Example: No trace of wear; several noticeable marks but generally pleasing appearance
MS-65 RD (Mint State, Full Red)
- Surface: No wear, minimal contact marks with none in focal areas
- Luster: Complete, vibrant cartwheel luster with 95%+ original red color
- Strike: Sharp, complete design elements
- Example: Exceptional eye appeal; may have a few minor flaws visible under magnification
MS-67+ RD (Mint State, Full Red, Superb Gem+)
- Surface: Virtually flawless even under magnification
- Luster: Exceptional cartwheel luster with 100% original blazing red color
- Strike: Full, sharp strike with complete details
- Example: Extraordinary eye appeal; essentially pristine with outstanding strike, luster, and surface preservation
Market Analysis
Current Market Values by Grade (May 2025)
| Variety | MS-63 | MS-65 | MS-67 |
|---|---|---|---|
| 1909 (P) | $40 | $135 | $4,500 |
| 1909-S | $450 | $750 | $12,000 |
| 1909 VDB (P) | $175 | $250 | $3,000 |
| 1909-S VDB | $4,500 | $8,000 | $110,000 |
Values based on PCGS Price Guide (May 2025) for problem-free examples
Recent Significant Auction Results
| Lot Description | Realized Price | Date | Notes |
|---|---|---|---|
| 1909-S VDB MS-67+ RD (PCGS) | $168,000 | Apr 5, 2022 | Stack’s Bowers; top known finer example (PCGS #30397554) |
| 1909 VDB DDR MS-66 RD (PCGS) | $8,400 | Apr 9, 2025 | Stack’s Bowers Spring Showcase; rarity FS-1102 |
| 1909-S MS-67 RD (NGC) | $15,275 | Feb 10, 2025 | Heritage Long Beach Expo; NGC-graded example |
Market Trends
The 1909-S VDB continues to appreciate steadily, with premium quality examples (MS-65 RD and above) showing the strongest gains over the past five years. According to PCGS auction data, MS-65 RD examples have appreciated approximately 35% since 2020, while MS-67 RD examples have nearly doubled in value during the same period.
The standard 1909 and 1909 VDB issues remain relatively stable and affordable in circulated grades, making them excellent entry points for new collectors. However, superb gem examples with full red color have seen significant price increases as registry set competition drives demand for top-population coins.
Counterfeit & Preservation Watch
Counterfeit Detection
1909-S VDB Counterfeits
The 1909-S VDB, being the most valuable of the four varieties, is unfortunately the most frequently counterfeited. Watch for these warning signs:
- Added Mint Mark: Examine the “S” under magnification for signs of tooling around the edges or an unnatural depression in the field surrounding the mint mark
- Added VDB: Genuine VDB initials show consistent depth with other design elements; counterfeits often show inconsistent depth or improper letter spacing
- Casting Seams: Cast counterfeits may show fine seam lines, typically visible along the rim
- Weight Discrepancies: Many counterfeits use incorrect metal compositions, resulting in weights outside the standard tolerance range (3.11g ±0.13g)
- Incorrect Font: The “S” mint mark should match other San Francisco cents of the era in size and style
Authentication Tools
- Use a precision scale accurate to 0.01g to verify weight
- Compare side-by-side with a known genuine example when possible
- Examine under 10x magnification, focusing on the mint mark and VDB initials
- Consider specific gravity testing for suspected copper-plated zinc counterfeits
Preservation Guidelines
Natural vs. Artificial Toning
- Natural Toning: Typically shows a gradual transition from red to brown, often with concentric “album toning” rings or even coloration
- Artificial Toning: Often displays unnatural colors (purples, blues, greens) with abrupt transitions and uneven patterns
- Authentication Tip: Under magnification, artificially toned coins often show micro-pitting or an unnatural glossy surface
Storage Recommendations
- Optimal Environment: Store in temperature-controlled environment (65-72°F) with relative humidity below 50%
- Encapsulation: Professional third-party grading service holders offer best long-term protection
- Avoid: PVC flips, rubber bands, paper envelopes with high acid content, direct handling
- Album Storage: If using albums, choose those with non-PVC, inert plastic and no sulfur-containing materials
- Cleaning Warning: Never clean 1909 Lincoln cents with any chemical or abrasive; even light cleaning can substantially reduce value
Collector’s Corner: Roll-Hunting & Acquisition
Roll-Hunting Prospects
While finding key date 1909-S or 1909-S VDB cents in circulation or bank rolls is extremely unlikely today, collectors occasionally discover 1909 Philadelphia issues and rarely 1909 VDB Philadelphia cents through dedicated roll searching. Modern wheat cent rolls typically yield pre-1934 dates at a rate of approximately 1-2 per $25 face value box (50 rolls).
Tips for Roll Hunters
- Request “customer-wrapped” penny rolls from banks, which may contain unsearched older cents
- Look for rolls with end coins showing wheat reverse designs
- Regional banks in rural areas often yield better results than urban financial centers
- Establish relationships with bank tellers who can set aside older-looking rolls
Acquisition Strategies
For Beginning Collectors
- Start with circulated 1909 (Philadelphia) examples in G-4 to VF-20 grades
- Purchase from reputable dealers with return policies
- Consider ANACS-graded examples, which often trade at lower premiums than PCGS/NGC
- Attend local coin club meetings where members may offer fair deals on duplicate items
For Advanced Collectors
- Focus on third-party graded examples from PCGS or NGC for key dates (1909-S, 1909-S VDB)
- Develop relationships with specialized Lincoln cent dealers
- Consider Heritage Auctions, Stack’s Bowers, and Great Collections for premium examples
- Join the Early American Coppers (EAC) club or the Lincoln Cent Research Group for networking
Recommended Dealers
- Specialist Lincoln Cent Dealers:
- David Lawrence Rare Coins (Virginia Beach, VA)
- Longacre Coin Company (Orwigsburg, PA)
- Northeast Numismatics (Concord, MA)
- Major Shows with Strong Early Lincoln Cent Offerings:
- FUN Show (January, Florida)
- ANA World’s Fair of Money (Summer, various locations)
- Long Beach Expo (California, three times yearly)
Frequently Asked Questions
How can I tell if my 1909-S VDB is genuine?
The most reliable authentication comes from third-party grading services (PCGS, NGC, ANACS). For personal verification, examine the “S” mint mark under magnification—it should be properly positioned under the date with well-defined serifs. The VDB initials should show consistent depth with the rest of the design, and the coin should weigh approximately 3.11 grams (±0.13g). Compare the positioning and style of these elements to known genuine examples whenever possible.
Why was there controversy over the VDB initials?
When the Lincoln cent was first issued in August 1909, designer Victor David Brenner’s initials “VDB” appeared prominently at the bottom center of the reverse. Public criticism claimed the initials were too large and conspicuous, appearing more like a commercial advertisement than a discreet designer’s mark. Mint officials quickly ordered the removal of the initials, creating the scarce 1909-S VDB variety before the San Francisco Mint could produce many examples. Brenner’s initials would later return in 1918, but in much smaller form on Lincoln’s shoulder truncation.
How many 1909-S VDB cents are estimated to exist today?
Of the original 484,000 mintage, numismatic experts estimate approximately 50,000-60,000 examples survive across all grades. Most exist in circulated condition (Good through Extremely Fine), with perhaps fewer than 10,000 uncirculated examples remaining. PCGS and NGC population reports together show fewer than a thousand examples in gem conditions (MS-65 or better), making these high-grade specimens particularly valuable to collectors.
What makes the 1909-S VDB so much more valuable than other 1909 varieties?
The exceptional value derives from multiple factors: its status as a first-year issue, the controversy surrounding the designer’s initials, its extremely low mintage (484,000), and its position as the key date in America’s longest-running coin series. The early removal of the VDB initials created immediate collector interest, with many examples being saved from circulation. Despite this, the coin’s limited production ensured it would remain scarce and highly sought-after throughout the past century.
Is it worth having my circulated 1909-S VDB professionally graded?
For 1909-S VDB cents in Fine condition or better, professional grading is generally recommended. The substantial value difference between grades (often hundreds of dollars) justifies the grading fee, and the authentication provides peace of mind against counterfeits. For heavily circulated examples (Good or Very Good), grading may be less essential unless the coin shows particularly attractive color or problem-free surfaces. When selecting a grading service, PCGS and NGC typically command the highest market premiums, though ANACS offers a more economical alternative with strong market acceptance.