In a quiet New England town, a routine kitchen renovation led to a discovery that’s now turning heads in the numismatic world. A century-old Lincoln penny, found tucked behind an antique wall clock, is creating a buzz among coin collectors—and for good reason.
Hidden Treasure Behind an Old Clock
Homeowner Sarah Whitmore never imagined her kitchen remodel would uncover a rare piece of American history. As contractors removed cabinetry and took down an old wall clock, a small copper coin unexpectedly dropped to the floor.
“It just clinked and rolled toward my feet,” Whitmore shared. “I picked it up and saw the date—1909. It looked old, but I didn’t realize how special it really was.”
A Collector’s Holy Grail: The 1909-S VDB Penny
The coin turned out to be a 1909-S VDB Lincoln cent, one of the most coveted U.S. coins ever minted. Struck in San Francisco, this penny was the first Lincoln cent to feature the designer Victor David Brenner’s initials—“V.D.B.”—on the reverse.
But controversy over the initials led to the coin being pulled from circulation shortly after production began. With only 484,000 of these coins ever minted, they’ve become a legendary find among collectors.
Why This Penny Is So Valuable
According to Greg Holloway, a senior expert from the American Numismatic Association, “Even in circulated condition, a genuine 1909-S VDB penny can bring in several thousand dollars. But in near-mint condition? We’re talking tens of thousands.”
Astonishing Condition Adds to the Value
The most remarkable part of the find? The coin’s condition. Whitmore’s penny showed almost no signs of wear, suggesting it had barely circulated before disappearing behind the clock.
After sending it to the Professional Coin Grading Service (PCGS), the coin was authenticated and given a high grade of MS-65 Red—a near-gem condition reserved for coins with excellent strike and color preservation.
Interest Skyrockets Among Collectors
Once Whitmore posted a photo of the coin on a coin collector’s forum, the excitement took off. Collectors and auction houses began reaching out immediately, some reportedly offering over $85,000 for the coin.
“It’s surreal,” Whitmore said. “We were just trying to give our kitchen a facelift. Now we’ve uncovered a coin that might be worth more than the entire remodel.”
What Happens Next?
While she hasn’t decided whether to sell or keep the coin, Whitmore is enjoying the unexpected fame and learning more about coin collecting. “We’re having the rest of the house checked—who knows what else might be hiding in the walls?”
A Symbol of Hidden History
This incredible find serves as a powerful reminder: historic treasures can lie hidden in the most unexpected places. Whether you’re a seasoned collector or a curious homeowner, it proves that rare coins can be found where you least expect them.
For coin enthusiasts, it’s a dream come true. For everyone else, it’s a story of luck, timing, and a single penny that turned into a life-changing discovery.
FAQ – Lincoln Penny Found Behind Wall Clock
1. Why is the 1909-S VDB Lincoln penny so special?
It was the first Lincoln cent issued with the designer’s initials “V.D.B.” on the back. Only 484,000 were minted before it was pulled from production, making it extremely rare and highly valuable.
2. Where was it found?
The penny was discovered behind an old wall clock during a home renovation in New England. It had likely been hidden there for over a century.
3. What is its estimated value?
Due to its rarity and near-mint condition (MS-65 Red), experts estimate the coin’s value at more than $85,000. Offers from collectors have already reached that range.