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1909-S VDB Lincoln wheat penny value guide -- mintage, key facts, and current price estimates for the series' most famous key date.
Note: a full grade-by-grade breakdown for this coin is still being compiled.
The most famous key date in the series -- designer Victor D. Brenner's initials (V.D.B.) appear on the reverse rim, a detail unique to early 1909 strikes.
Only 484,000 were struck at the San Francisco mint before the initials were removed mid-year, making it the lowest-mintage regular-issue date in the set.
Live listings matching the 1909-S VDB Lincoln Wheat Penny
Other dates and varieties in this series
Condition drives price more than any other factor on a coin like this — two examples of the same date can be worth very different amounts depending on wear and authentication.
The value table above is organized by grade for a reason — a coin's condition, not just its date, sets where it lands on that range. If you're not sure how to grade, a seller's photos and description should call it out.
A professionally graded (PCGS/NGC) example carries more certainty than a raw coin, and usually a small premium for it. Both are fine to buy — just factor grading into the price you're comparing.
Prices vary between individual sellers here, not one retailer's price list. Sort by price, check the seller's Metal Points and order history, and message the seller if photos don't show enough detail to grade confidently.
About the 1909-S VDB Lincoln Wheat Penny
A typical circulated example brings around $929, with uncirculated examples ranging from $2,033 to $2,498.
The most famous key date in the series -- designer Victor D. Brenner's initials (V.D.B.) appear on the reverse rim, a detail unique to early 1909 strikes.
For anything you believe is a key date or an error, professional grading protects both buyer and seller by settling condition and authenticity before money changes hands.
List it free on PeerMetals — flat 2.75% seller fee, zero listing fees, 1–3 day payouts.
