Imagine discovering a small, dusty coin behind an old wall clock—only to find out it could be worth more than $85,000. That’s exactly what happened during a home renovation, turning an ordinary cleanup into an extraordinary treasure hunt. The rare find? A 1909-S VDB Lincoln penny—one of the most coveted coins in U.S. numismatic history.
What Is the 1909-S VDB Lincoln Penny?
The Lincoln penny was introduced in 1909 to commemorate the 100th anniversary of Abraham Lincoln’s birth. It marked a major shift in U.S. coin design, being the first to feature a real person instead of the traditional Liberty figure.
So, what makes the 1909-S VDB version stand out?
- 1909: Year of first release.
- S: Minted in San Francisco.
- VDB: Designer Victor David Brenner’s initials placed on the reverse bottom.
The initials “VDB” were removed shortly after public backlash over their prominence. As a result, only around 484,000 of these coins were minted, making them exceptionally rare among Lincoln cents.
How Was the Rare Penny Discovered?
During a home renovation, a family removed an old wall clock that had been hanging undisturbed for decades. Behind the wooden frame, they found a dusty penny tucked between the wall and clock—easily overlooked by anyone else. A quick online search confirmed the incredible discovery: a 1909-S VDB Lincoln penny, and in surprisingly good condition.
Why Is the 1909-S VDB Penny So Valuable?
Not every old coin is worth a fortune. But this one checks every box for collectors:
Low Mintage Numbers
With fewer than 500,000 ever made, this penny is one of the lowest-minted Lincoln cents in existence.
Short Production Run
The “VDB” initials were quickly removed from the design, making this a one-year-only release with a unique appearance.
San Francisco Mint Mark
Coins from the San Francisco Mint are historically produced in smaller quantities, adding to their rarity.
Collector Demand
Considered a “holy grail” among Lincoln cent enthusiasts, the 1909-S VDB penny is always in high demand.
Condition Matters
The better the condition, the higher the value. Uncirculated examples with minimal wear can fetch well over $85,000.
Quick Overview of the 1909-S VDB Lincoln Penny
| Feature | Details |
|---|---|
| Coin Name | 1909-S VDB Lincoln Penny |
| Mint Location | San Francisco |
| Designer Initials | VDB (Victor David Brenner) |
| Total Minted | Approx. 484,000 |
| Metal Content | 95% copper, 5% tin and zinc |
| Reason for Rarity | Short run and removed initials |
| Found Location | Behind a wall clock during home renovation |
| Estimated Value | Over $85,000 (based on condition) |
| Still in Circulation | Extremely rare, mostly found in collections |
| Collector Interest | Very high |
Could You Have One Hiding at Home?
Believe it or not, some of the most valuable coins have been found in old jars, drawers, wallets, and furniture. If you’re lucky, you might already have one and not even know it.
What to Look For
- Date: The coin should read “1909.”
- Mint Mark: Look for the “S” under the date.
- Initials: “VDB” should appear at the bottom of the reverse side.
- Condition: Sharper details mean a higher value.
What to Do If You Find One
Handle with Care
Use gloves or hold the coin by the edges to avoid oils and scratches.
Store It Properly
Place the coin in a plastic coin sleeve or soft cloth to prevent damage.
Get It Graded
Send it to a reputable coin grading service like PCGS or NGC to confirm authenticity and condition.
Don’t Rush to Sell
Take your time. Auctions often fetch better prices than quick private sales or pawn shops.
Consider a Coin Auction
A professional auction house can help you get top dollar from serious collectors.
Final Thoughts
The story of the 1909-S VDB penny found behind a wall clock is a powerful reminder that hidden treasures can be anywhere. Whether you’re a coin collector or simply curious, it’s worth checking your change and digging through old keepsakes. Who knows—you might uncover a rare coin worth thousands.
Keep your eyes open, handle your finds with care, and don’t underestimate the value of a simple penny. In the world of numismatics, even the smallest coin can carry a big story—and a big price tag.
Frequently Asked Questions (FAQs)
1. Why is the 1909-S VDB penny so rare?
It was minted in limited quantities, and the “VDB” initials were removed shortly after its release, making surviving coins highly collectible.
2. How can I tell if my penny is authentic?
Check for the 1909 date, the “S” mint mark, and the “VDB” initials. For confirmation, consult a professional coin grading service.
3. What’s the best way to sell a rare coin?
Use a certified coin dealer or auction house to ensure maximum value and safety.
4. Can I still find these coins in circulation?
It’s extremely rare but not impossible. Most are found in old collections, estate sales, or forgotten stashes.
5. Should I clean a rare coin before selling?
No. Cleaning can damage the coin’s surface and significantly reduce its value. Always keep it in its original condition.