The Lincoln penny, a staple of American currency since 1909, continues to captivate numismatists and collectors alike. Recently, a 1909-S VDB Lincoln penny in exceptional condition sold for an impressive $3,960 at auction. This sale underscores the significant value that certain features, such as sharp details and the coveted “red” coloration, can add to these coins.
Understanding the 1909-S VDB Lincoln Penny
The 1909-S VDB Lincoln penny holds a special place in numismatic history. Designed by Victor David Brenner, the coin’s reverse initially featured his initials, “V.D.B.”
However, due to public criticism over the prominence of these initials, the U.S. Mint quickly removed them, resulting in a limited mintage of the original design. Specifically, only 484,000 of these coins were produced at the San Francisco Mint, making them particularly rare and sought after by collectors.
The Significance of ‘Red’ Tones in Lincoln Pennies
The term “red” in coin collecting refers to the original reddish-orange hue of freshly minted copper coins. Over time, copper oxidizes, causing many pennies to develop brownish tones.
Coins that retain at least 95% of their original red luster are designated as “Red” (RD) and are highly prized. This original coloration indicates minimal exposure to the elements and suggests that the coin has been well-preserved.
Auction Highlights: The $3,960 Sale
In August 2023, a 1909-S VDB Lincoln penny graded MS-64 RB (Red-Brown) by the Professional Coin Grading Service (PCGS) sold for $3,960 at Stack’s Bowers auction. The coin’s sharp details and significant retention of its original red color contributed to its high value.
Such sales highlight the premium that collectors place on coins with both historical significance and exceptional preservation.
Factors Influencing the Value of Lincoln Pennies
Several key factors determine the value of a Lincoln penny:
- Mintage and Rarity: Limited production numbers, as seen with the 1909-S VDB penny, increase a coin’s rarity and desirability.
- Condition and Grade: Coins are graded on a scale from 1 to 70, with higher numbers indicating better preservation. An MS-64 grade denotes a coin in mint state with minimal imperfections.
- Color Designation: The color of a copper coin—Red (RD), Red-Brown (RB), or Brown (BN)—reflects its state of preservation. Red coins are the most valued due to their original appearance.
- Historical Significance: Coins with unique stories or design features, such as the inclusion and subsequent removal of Brenner’s initials, attract greater interest.
Key Details of the 1909-S VDB Lincoln Penny
| Feature | Description |
|---|---|
| Designer | Victor David Brenner |
| Mint Mark | S (San Francisco) |
| Mintage | 484,000 coins |
| Composition | 95% Copper, 5% Tin and Zinc |
| Weight | 3.11 grams |
| Diameter | 19.05 mm |
| Thickness | 1.52 mm |
| Notable Feature | “V.D.B.” initials on the reverse |
| Auction Sale Price | $3,960 (August 2023) |
| Grade | MS-64 RB (Red-Brown) |
Tips for Collectors
- Preservation: Store coins in a controlled environment to prevent oxidation and maintain their original color.
- Authentication: Have coins graded by reputable services like PCGS or NGC to verify authenticity and condition.
- Research: Stay informed about market trends and recent auction results to understand a coin’s potential value.
FAQs
What makes the 1909-S VDB Lincoln penny so valuable?
Its limited mintage of 484,000 coins, combined with the historical significance of the “V.D.B.” initials and its well-preserved condition, contribute to its high value.
How does the color designation affect a Lincoln penny’s value?
Coins retaining their original red color (RD) are more valuable than those that have toned to red-brown (RB) or brown (BN) due to oxidation.
What does the grade MS-64 RB mean?
“MS” stands for Mint State, indicating an uncirculated coin. The number 64 denotes the coin’s condition on a scale of 1 to 70, with higher numbers indicating better preservation. “RB” signifies that the coin has a mix of red and brown tones.
Where can I get my Lincoln pennies appraised?
Reputable coin grading services like the Professional Coin Grading Service (PCGS) or the Numismatic Guaranty Corporation (NGC) offer appraisal and grading services.
Are all 1909 Lincoln pennies valuable?
Not all 1909 Lincoln pennies are highly valuable. The 1909-S VDB variant is particularly sought after due to its rarity and unique features. Other 1909 pennies without the “S” mint mark or “V.D.B.” initials are more common and less valuable.