1909 (S) Lincoln Wheat Cent

Coin Details

Auction Record

$1,680 UNC Details 04-12-2023 Stack's Bowers

Description

Part of the Lincoln Wheat Cents 1909-1958 series, the 1909 (S) Lincoln Wheat Cent is a cent from the San Francisco Mint. With a mintage of 1.8 million, this is a scarce issue — ranked 2nd of 4 mint variants by mintage, with 2% of production. The obverse features Abraham Lincoln facing right, the first real person depicted on a U.S. circulating coin and the reverse displays two wheat stalks framing ONE CENT, symbolizing American agriculture. First year of the Lincoln Cent. The "VDB" initials on the reverse caused a public outcry, and cents without VDB quickly followed. The San Francisco Mint, a Gold Rush-era institution, now specializes in proof and collector coinage. Estimated market value ranges from $117 to $527 depending on grade and condition. Struck in 95% copper, 5% tin and zinc, weighing 3.11 grams, 19 mm in diameter, with a plain edge. Cataloged as PCGS #2432.