1909 (S) Lincoln Wheat Cent - VDB
Strike Type
Coin Details
Value Estimates
Values as of May 2026 — estimates reflect typical grades (G-4 through MS-63). Coins in lower or exceptional grades may fall outside this range.
Auction Record
$10,000 MS66BN 12-07-2022 eBay
Description
The 1909 (S) Lincoln Wheat Cent - VDB was struck at the San Francisco Mint as a cent in the Lincoln Wheat Cents 1909-1958 series. With a mintage of 484,000, this is an extremely rare issue — the lowest mintage among 4 mint variants, representing only less than 1% of total 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. Coined at the San Francisco Mint, which transitioned from Gold Rush-era production to its modern role producing proof and collector issues. 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 #2426.
External References
Error Varieties(1)
Community Submissions
Other Strike Types in This Series
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