Many people think that all coins in their pocket are just worth face value. But did you know one of them could be worth as much as $92,000? Yes, that’s true. There’s a special old coin, called the 1909-S VDB Lincoln Wheat Penny, that is still possibly in circulation today. If you’re lucky, you might just find one.
What Is the 1909-S VDB Lincoln Wheat Penny?
The 1909-S VDB penny is a rare version of the Lincoln cent, first released in 1909. This was the first year the U.S. Mint started making coins with Abraham Lincoln’s face on them. The letters “VDB” stand for Victor David Brenner, the designer of the coin. The “S” stands for San Francisco, where the coin was made.
Only about 484,000 of these coins were ever produced, making them one of the rarest Lincoln cents. Most pennies are made in the millions or even billions, so this one stands out because of how few were made.
Why Is This Penny So Valuable?
There are a few reasons why this coin is worth so much money. First, it’s extremely rare. Second, it was part of a limited production, and then the U.S. Mint stopped adding the designer’s initials because of public criticism. That made the original coins with “VDB” even more special.
Collectors are always on the lookout for such rare pieces, and if a coin is well-preserved or in mint condition, it can be sold for tens of thousands of dollars. Some auctions have seen the 1909-S VDB penny sold for as much as $92,000.
How to Know If You Have One?
If you’re wondering how to spot this valuable coin, it’s actually simple if you know what to look for. Turn the penny over and look at the bottom of the reverse side (the side with the wheat design). If you see the tiny initials “VDB” near the rim, and the front has an “S” under the date (1909), then you might be holding a fortune.
It’s always a good idea to take it to a coin dealer or professional appraiser for proper checking. Be careful, though, because there are many fakes and imitations out there.
Can You Still Find It in Circulation?
It might sound strange, but yes — even today, it’s possible (though very rare) to find this penny in circulation. Some people have found old coins in their change jars or while coin rolling. While most have been taken out of circulation by collectors over the years, some still turn up.
That’s why it’s smart to check your change every now and then. You never know what treasure could be hiding in your pocket.
What Should You Do If You Find One?
If you ever come across a penny that you think might be the 1909-S VDB, handle it carefully. Do not clean or scratch it, as this can lower its value. Put it in a soft cloth or plastic coin holder and get it checked by a coin expert. They can tell you if it’s genuine and how much it might be worth.
The idea that a simple one-cent coin can be worth $92,000 is exciting and amazing. The 1909-S VDB Lincoln Wheat Penny is one of those rare coins that collectors dream of. Though rare, it’s still out there. So next time you get change at a shop, don’t just ignore those pennies — one of them could change your life.
FAQs
What makes the 1909-S VDB Lincoln Wheat Penny so valuable?
The 1909-S VDB penny is rare because only 484,000 were minted. It also features the initials ‘VDB’ of the designer Victor David Brenner, which were later removed, making the original coins very valuable.
How do I know if I have a 1909-S VDB penny?
Look for the year 1909 with an ‘S’ mintmark below it on the front of the coin, and the initials ‘VDB’ on the bottom rim of the reverse side with the wheat design.
Is the 1909-S VDB penny still in circulation?
Yes, although extremely rare, some 1909-S VDB pennies are still found in circulation today, often discovered in change jars or during coin roll hunting.
What should I do if I find a rare penny like this?
Avoid cleaning it and store it safely in a coin holder. Then get it evaluated by a professional coin dealer or appraiser to confirm its authenticity and value.
