Another aspect driving the coin’s price to the point of perfection is its rarity and historical significance. Indeed, an immaculate coin on the market can be worth $100,000 or more.
In this article, we will discuss the aspects that lead to this coin being memorable-the six other famous dates that are sought after by the numismatic community.
The 1909-S VDB Lincoln Penny-A Detailed Study
Design and Controversy
The Lincoln cent, designed by Victor David Brenner, was launched by the U.S. Mint in 1909 to celebrate the centenary of the birth of President Abraham Lincoln. Brenner’s initials-declaratedly “VDB”-caught the public eye on the reverse side of the coin. This placement was not to the public’s taste, and in the ensuing clamoring, Brenner’s initials were withdrawn from the coin altogether. Consequently, there were about 484,000 coins produced, only some of which bore the “VDB” initials.
Rarity and Mintage
The 1909-S VDB Lincoln penny is exceptionally rare, for only 484,000 of these coins were ever produced at the San Francisco Mint before the cancellation of the artist’s initials. Low mintage is a major fact in the desirability of this coin for collectors.
Current Market Value
The value of a 1909-S VDB Lincoln Penny varies based on its condition:
| Grade | Estimated Value |
|---|---|
| Good (G-4) | $700 – $1,000 |
| Fine (F-12) | $1,500 – $2,000 |
| Extremely Fine (EF-40) | $2,500 – $3,500 |
| Uncirculated (MS-60) | $4,000 – $6,000 |
| Mint State (MS-65) | $50,000 – $100,000+ |
Five Other Important Date Coins
1914-D Lincoln Cent-
Mintage and Rarity Minted in Denver, 1,193,000 pieces of the 1914-D Lincoln Cent were minted. With its very low mintage and extreme attrition rate, this coin is definitely a collector key date.~ Value In Good (G-4) condition, it is valued at about $200, while coins in Mint State (MS-65) price above $28,000.
1922 No D Lincoln Cent
Mintage and Rarity Because of a die error at the Denver Mint, some 1922 cents were struck without the “D” mintmark. Another rarity has been created due to this error.~ Estimated Value Good (G-4) examples have values of $500 and above, with those in Mint State (MS-65) above $30,000.
1931 S Lincoln Cent
Mintage and Rarity Historically, 1931-S had a mintage of only 866,000 and ranks among the lowest in mintage in the Lincoln series. Estimated Value Range from $100 in Good (G-4) to over $1,000 in Mint State (MS-65).
1955 Doubled Die Obverse Lincoln Cent
Mintage and Rarity This coin is highly sought after because of a minting error that gave rise to the obvious doubling of the date and inscriptions on the obverse. Estimated Value$1,500 in Good (G-4) and $25,000 or more in Mint State (MS-65).
1877 Indian Head Cent-Mintage and Rarity
The 1877 Indian Head cent had low mintage (852,500) and many lost to circulation, enhancing its scarcity. Estimated Value Good (G-4) specimens, $900; Mint State (MS-65), $10,000 and up.
The attraction of key date coins like the 1909-S VDB Lincoln Penny is in their historical significance, rarity, and the stories they tell. For collectors, these coins mean not just monetary value, but a physical connection to the past.
Any serious coin collector should understand the factors that dictate a coin’s worth, thereby increasing the fun and profit in coin collecting.
The 1909-S VDB Lincoln Penny, with its historical background and rarity, can easily pull in one more to its spheres, holding stories with every eye that looks upon it. To collectors, these coins mean much more than just the worth attached to them; they are artifacts connecting one person to the stories of millions.
These considerations make coin appreciation fun and potentially profitable to anyone from diehard numismatists to people just starting on the learning curve about coins.
FAQS:
What is a key-date coin?
A key-date coin is one that has scarcity or importance within a series, often often due to low mintages or special historical causes.
How do I find out how much my coin is worth?
Rarity, demand, and condition determine the price. A reputable coin grading service or price guide will give you an accurate assessment.