The value of a 1909 Lincoln one-cent coin (often called a “Wheat Penny”) can vary significantly depending on several factors, primarily its specific variety, condition, and presence of the designer’s initials.
Here’s a breakdown of the key factors and estimated values:
- 1909 VDB (Philadelphia Mint): These coins feature the designer Victor David Brenner’s initials (VDB) on the reverse, at the bottom between the wheat stalks.
- 1909-S VDB (San Francisco Mint): Similar to the above, but with an “S” mint mark (found on the obverse below the year) indicating it was minted in San Francisco. This is considered the rarest and most valuable of the 1909 Lincoln cents.
- 1909 No VDB (Philadelphia Mint): After public criticism, the VDB initials were removed from later 1909 Lincoln cents struck in Philadelphia.
- 1909-S No VDB (San Francisco Mint): Similar to the above, these coins lack the VDB initials but have the “S” mint mark.
- 1909 Indian Head Cent: While Lincoln cents were introduced in 1909, Indian Head cents were also minted that year. The 1909-S Indian Head Cent is a key date for that series and can be valuable.
- 1909-S over horizontal S (San Francisco Mint): A minting error where the initial San Francisco mint mark was horizontally oriented and then overstruck with the correct vertical “S”.
- Doubled Die Obverse: Error coins with doubling visible on the design elements, for example, to the east of the “1” digit, the first “9”, and the “0”, along with doubling on the “RTY” of LIBERTY.
The condition, or grade, of a coin is crucial in determining its value. Coins are graded on a scale from 1 (poor) to 70 (perfect mint state). Even within circulated conditions (Good, Fine, Very Fine), values can vary considerably.
- Circulated: Coins that show wear from being used in everyday transactions.
- Uncirculated: Coins that show no signs of wear and retain their original mint luster.
- Mint State (MS): Uncirculated coins, with grades ranging from MS-60 to MS-70, signifying different levels of perfection.
- Proof: Special coins struck with a mirror-like finish for collectors.
For copper coins like the Lincoln Cent, color is also a factor. The major grading services use Red (RD), Red-Brown (RB) , and Brown (BN) designations based on the percentage of original red luster remaining. Red coins are generally the most valuable.
The following values are estimates based on various sources and can fluctuate due to market demand and other factors:
1909 VDB (Philadelphia, no mint mark)
- Good: $10 – $15
- Fine: $15 – $20
- Extremely Fine: $50 – $75
- Uncirculated: $100 – $150
- MS-65 Red: $750+
1909-S VDB (San Francisco, mint mark S)
This is the key date variety and commands significantly higher prices.
- Good: $400 – $650
- Fine: $500 – $800
- Extremely Fine: Values can range up to $1,400.
- Uncirculated: Values can range from $1,575 in AU 50 BN to $2,000 – $3,500 for Uncirculated Brown examples, and into the tens of thousands of dollars for higher-grade Red examples.
- MS67 Red: One sold for $175,000.
1909 No VDB (Philadelphia, no mint mark)
- Good: $3 – $4
- Fine: $5 – $6
- Extremely Fine: $8
- Uncirculated: $12
1909-S No VDB (San Francisco, mint mark S)
- Good: $100 – $120
- Fine: $130 – $150
- Extremely Fine: $225
- Uncirculated: $275
- Counterfeits: The 1909-S VDB is a target for counterfeiters. It’s crucial to be cautious and seek professional authentication, particularly for high-value examples. A genuine 1909-S VDB penny should have a small dot inside the “S” mint mark.
- Professional Grading: For accurate valuation, especially for higher-grade or potentially rare coins, consider having the coin graded by a reputable professional service such as PCGS or NGC.
- Market Fluctuations: Coin values are subject to market demand and can change over time.
Disclaimer: This information is for general guidance only and is not a substitute for professional appraisal. Consult a reputable coin dealer or numismatic expert for a precise valuation of your specific coin.
What makes 1909 penny rare?
The 1909-S VDB Lincoln cent is considered to be a key date for the Lincoln cent series due to its low mintage of only 484,000. The US Mint also produced 27,995,000 1909 (no mint mark) Lincoln pennies at its Philadelphia facility.
What penny is worth $50,000?
From my experience, The 1959-D wheat penny is one of the most controversial mule coins ever. It’s worth $50,000! Here’s everything you could possibly want to know about the 1959-D penny error!
How much is a 1909 one penny worth?
£76.50 Current price is: £76.50.