Rare 1909-S VDB Lincoln Penny Discovered in Sandwich Bag: A rare 1909-S VDB Lincoln Penny recently turned an everyday moment into a jaw-dropping discovery. Hidden among a handful of old coins inside a sandwich bag, this small copper penny turned out to be worth a staggering $110,000.
The find has captured the attention of collectors and history buffs alike. In this article, we explore the fascinating backstory of this valuable coin, why it’s considered a crown jewel among collectors, how to spot one, and what to do if you think you’ve found your own hidden treasure. Whether you’re a seasoned collector or a curious beginner, this tale proves that even spare change can hold big surprises.
Overview Table: Key Facts About the 1909-S VDB Penny
| Detail | Information |
| Year of Issue | 1909 |
| Mint | San Francisco (“S” mint mark) |
| Designer | Victor David Brenner |
| Signature | “VDB” initials on the reverse |
| Total Minted | Approx. 484,000 coins |
| Metal Composition | 95% copper, 5% tin and zinc |
| Value Range | $750 (low grade) to $110,000+ (top grade) |
| Rarity | High due to limited mintage and early removal from circulation |
The Lincoln Penny That Changed U.S. Coin History
In 1909, the United States Mint introduced a bold new design for the one-cent coin, featuring the face of Abraham Lincoln. This marked the first time a real person appeared on American currency. The redesign came at the request of President Theodore Roosevelt, who wanted to bring more artistic beauty to American coins.
The man behind the design was Victor David Brenner, a talented engraver who added his initials—VDB—to the reverse side of the penny. Though a small detail, it stirred up major controversy just days after the coin’s release.
The VDB Initials That Sparked Controversy
When the first batch of Lincoln pennies entered circulation in August 1909, many Americans noticed the large VDB initials on the reverse bottom of the coin. Critics felt the initials were too prominent, accusing Brenner of self-promotion.
Responding quickly to the backlash, the U.S. Mint removed the initials from future coins. However, before the change was made, the San Francisco Mint had already produced a limited run—only 484,000 coins—with the initials still in place. This created an instant rarity: the 1909-S VDB Lincoln Penny.
What Makes This Coin Worth $110,000?
It’s hard to believe a single penny can be worth over $110,000, but there are solid reasons behind this price tag. Here’s what gives this coin its value:
- Limited Mintage: Only a small number of these coins were ever made.
- Early Removal: The VDB initials were quickly removed, making surviving coins rare.
- High Demand: Collectors worldwide seek this exact version.
- Condition-Based Pricing: Higher grades fetch dramatically higher prices.
This unique blend of history, scarcity, and collector interest is why this coin is considered one of the most valuable Lincoln cents in existence.
Coin Grading and Value Estimates
The condition of a coin—known as its “grade”—plays a huge role in its value. Professional grading services like NGC and PCGS use a 70-point scale to assess each coin’s quality. Below is a breakdown of potential values for the 1909-S VDB Lincoln Penny:
| Grade | Description | Estimated Value |
| G-4 | Good (heavily worn) | $750 – $1,000 |
| F-12 | Fine | $1,500 – $2,000 |
| MS-63 | Mint State | $15,000 – $20,000 |
| MS-66 | Gem Quality | $55,000 – $75,000 |
| MS-67+ | Superb Condition | $110,000+ |
The coin recently found in the sandwich bag is believed to be in MS-67 condition, which is extremely rare and explains its high valuation.
How to Spot a 1909-S VDB Lincoln Penny
If you’re suddenly inspired to check your coin collection or that old jar in your kitchen drawer, here’s what to look for:
- The Date: Look for 1909 on the front (obverse) of the coin.
- The Mint Mark: A small “S” below the date indicates it came from San Francisco.
- VDB Initials: Flip the coin over. The initials “VDB” should be clearly visible near the bottom edge of the reverse.
Because of the coin’s value, many fakes and altered coins exist. If you think you’ve found one, don’t attempt to clean it or modify it. Have it authenticated by a certified coin grading service.
List: Tips to Identify a Genuine 1909-S VDB Penny
- Search for the year 1909 on the front.
- Spot the “S” mint mark just beneath the date.
- Look for “VDB” on the reverse, near the bottom edge.
- Avoid touching the surface—use gloves or a soft cloth.
- Contact professional graders like PCGS or NGC for verification.
Coin Collecting: A Hobby With Real Rewards
Stories like the 1909-S VDB Lincoln Penny found in a sandwich bag remind us why coin collecting remains such a fascinating hobby. It combines curiosity, history, and the excitement of potential discovery.
Even if you never find a coin worth six figures, you can still enjoy the process of learning about the past, spotting unusual designs, and maybe even passing down your collection to the next generation.
Final Thoughts
The unexpected discovery of a 1909-S VDB Lincoln Penny worth $110,000 proves that valuable things can show up in the most ordinary places. This historic coin is more than just a collector’s item—it’s a symbol of how everyday moments can hold extraordinary value.
Next time you go through your spare change, take a closer look. That small copper coin might just be your lucky break. Found something interesting? Share your story in the comments—or check your horoscope to see if fortune is on your side today!
FAQs About the 1909-S VDB Lincoln Penny
1. How can I confirm if I have a 1909-S VDB Lincoln Penny?
Check the front for the 1909 date and the “S” mint mark. On the back, look for “VDB” near the bottom rim. If it meets these criteria, have it professionally graded.
2. Why are the VDB initials important?
They identify the designer, Victor David Brenner. Their early removal from circulation made the coins with these initials very rare.
3. Is every 1909 penny valuable?
No, only those with the “S” mint mark and “VDB” initials are especially valuable. Others can still be collectible but are less rare.
4. What should I do if I find one?
Handle it with care. Store it safely and send it to a certified grading service for proper evaluation.
5. Has the value of this coin increased over the years?
Yes, significantly. What was once worth a few hundred dollars decades ago can now reach $110,000 or more in top condition.
