1909-S VDB Lincoln Cent

The 1909-S VDB Lincoln Cent holds a prestigious place in numismatic history, coveted by collectors for its rarity and storied past. Minted for a brief period at the San Francisco Mint, this particular penny is famously recognized for having the initials “VDB” stamped at the base of the reverse side, representing the designer Victor David Brenner. Its production was limited, causing it to become a sought-after prize for enthusiasts of American coinage.

Understanding the 1909-S VDB Lincoln Cent is crucial for anyone interested in the legacy of American coins. Its value extends far beyond its monetary denomination due to its rarity, historical significance, and the intriguing narrative of its creation. The design features the iconic portrait of President Abraham Lincoln on the obverse, which marked a departure from the depictions of Liberty that had previously adorned the one-cent pieces.

1909-S VDB Lincoln Cent Facts

• The 1909-S VDB Lincoln Cent is a rare and highly prized coin among collectors.
• This coin is distinguished by the engraver’s initials, VDB, and its short mintage period.
• It represents a significant moment in numismatic history as the first US one-cent piece to feature President Lincoln’s image.

History of the 1909-S VDB Lincoln Cent

In this section, we uncover the remarkable journey of the 1909-S VDB Lincoln Cent, exploring its conception by Theodore Roosevelt and Victor David Brenner, the surrounding controversies, and the initial public reception.

Origins and Designer

The 1909-S VDB Lincoln Cent emerged from President Theodore Roosevelt’s desire to revitalize American coinage. Victor David Brenner, a Lithuanian-born Jewish artist and one of the nation’s most respected medalists, was commissioned to design a new coin featuring Abraham Lincoln. This marked the first time a president’s image appeared on a regular issue of United States coins, spanning from 1909-1958.

Controversy and Resolution

The initials ‘VDB’ on the coin represent its designer, Victor David Brenner. A controversy arose over these initials’ prominence, which led to objections from both the public and the Secretary of the Treasury. The result was a compromise where production of coins with ‘VDB’ ceased, making those first 1909-S issues with the initials highly sought after by collectors.

Release and Public Reaction

Upon release, the public showed immense interest in the 1909-S VDB Lincoln Cent. However, the number minted at the San Francisco Mint was a mere 484,000, making it the lowest mintage of the series and consequently a key date for coin collectors. The coin’s rarity and the buzz around its release have kept it in high demand among numismatists since its initial release.

Design and Symbolism

In our exploration of the 1909-S VDB Lincoln Cent, we’ll uncover the meaning behind its design elements that capture significant historical and cultural symbols of the United States.

Obverse Design

The obverse of the 1909-S VDB Lincoln Cent showcases a portrait of Abraham Lincoln, making it the first U.S. coin to feature a real person instead of the allegorical Lady Liberty or similar figures. The likeness of Lincoln on this cent was revolutionary for its time, as it transitioned from the previous “Indian Head” design to a more contemporary representation of a national hero.

Reverse Design

Turning to the reverse, it features two stalks of wheat, which is why the coin is colloquially known as the “Wheat Penny”. This design was a departure from the ornate wreaths found on earlier coins. The wheat ears flanking the words “ONE CENT” and “UNITED STATES OF AMERICA” symbolize prosperity and the nation’s agricultural heritage.

VDB Initials

Lastly, the contentious VDB initials of the coin’s designer, Victor David Brenner, appear discreetly at the base of Lincoln’s shoulder on the obverse. The presence of these initials caused a stir during the coin’s release, leading to their removal from the design partway through 1909 and their subsequent re-addition in later years, albeit in a less conspicuous location on the reverse.

Minting Details

We find it essential to focus on three critical components regarding the 1909-S VDB Lincoln Cent: its place of production, the quantity produced, and the distinguishing characteristics of its mint mark.

San Francisco Mint

The 1909-S VDB Lincoln Cent was produced at the San Francisco Mint, an institution renowned for minting a myriad of coins with exceptional craftsmanship. The “S” mint mark, located on the reverse side of the coin, signifies its San Francisco origin.

Mintage Numbers

Only 484,000 pieces of the 1909-S VDB Lincoln Cent were minted, a number significantly lower than for other Lincoln Cent issues. This limited mintage is a pivotal factor in the coin’s value and noteworthiness.

Mint Mark Variations

Recognizing authentic 1909-S VDB cents includes examining the mint mark positions and the reverse dies used in production. The “S” mint mark bears distinct serifs and its proper location is beneath the phrase “ONE CENT” on the coin’s reverse. Genuine variations can be pinpointed by their unique markers:

• Mint marks aligned with clear serifs
• Mint mark location consistent across authentic pieces