Imagine a coin nearly lost to history—washed overboard during one of the most infamous disasters of the early 20th century—yet miraculously recovered and eventually sold for $200,000.
This is the story of the 1909‑S VDB penny, one of the rarest and most coveted coins in American numismatics. Minted in San Francisco just days before the VDB initials were removed, this coin’s incredible provenance—allegedly found in Titanic salvage—catapulted its value into the six‑figure realm.
The Origins of the 1909‑S VDB Penny
Designer and Minting Context
- Designer: Victor David Brenner (VDB)
- Obverse: Abraham Lincoln’s portrait
- Reverse: Wheat ears with prominent “VDB” initials at the bottom
- Composition: 95% copper, 2.5% tin, 2.5% zinc
Mintage and Withdrawal
- San Francisco mint figures: Only 484,000 1909‑S VDB coins struck
- The VDB initials sparked public backlash as being “too prominent”
- On August 6, 1909, production ceased and the initials were removed just days after launch
- Philadelphia also minted VDB pennies, but without the “S” mint mark
The Rarity and Historical Impact
Short Production Run
- A production window of just four days created extremely low survival rates
Collector Frenzy and Legacy
- The release of the first Lincoln cent triggered nationwide excitement
- People lined up at banks and stores to acquire the coin, hoping it would become a rare collectible
- Today, the 1909‑S VDB penny is ranked as the 14th most collectible U.S. coin in popular coin literature
Current Value and Auction Records
Grading and Market Segmentation (2025)
According to the latest market trends, the value of this penny varies dramatically based on condition:
- Poor–Fine: $2,000 – $3,000
- Very Fine–Extremely Fine: $4,000 – $8,000
- Uncirculated (MS-60 to MS-64): $15,000 – $30,000
- Mint State (MS‑65+): $50,000 – $200,000+
- Top-tier (MS‑67) examples have sold well over $100,000
Auction Highlights
- A Mint State 67 specimen sold for $50,400 in a major auction
- A unique piece linked to Titanic salvage, with documented provenance, fetched $200,000 in a private sale
PCGS Price Guide and Population
- Estimated survival: ~50,000 in all grades
- High-grade survivors (MS-60+): ~6,000
- Top-grade survivors (MS-65+): ~3,000
- Specifications: 3.11g in weight, 19mm diameter, plain edge
Titanic Provenance: Myth or Miracle?
Supposed Shipwreck Origins
Rumors persist that several 1909‑S VDB pennies were aboard the Titanic, carried by crew members or passengers. Though formal documentation is scarce, at least one example surfaced with saltwater damage and accompanying documentation linking it to Titanic salvage efforts. This enhanced its value dramatically.
Collector Caution
- Due to its value, the 1909‑S VDB is one of the most counterfeited coins in U.S. history
- Experts advise buyers to seek certification from PCGS or NGC
- Fake examples often feature altered mintmarks or are struck with counterfeit dies
The Numismatic and Investment Rationale
Condition-Driven Value
- Eye appeal and coin grade are the biggest drivers of price
- Mid-grade uncirculated coins (MS‑63 to MS‑65) offer the best blend of affordability and investment potential
- Top-tier coins (MS‑66 and above) are ideal for high-end investors and often exceed six figures
Collector Demand and Rarity Impact
- The combination of historical significance, low mintage, and continued public fascination ensures sustained demand
- Unlike bullion coins, these numismatic items gain value through collector enthusiasm and market scarcity
Risk Mitigation
- Due to the prevalence of fakes, buyers are urged to purchase only from reputable dealers
- Coins should always be certified and encapsulated by a trusted grading service
Key Data Summary
| Attribute | Details |
|---|---|
| Designer | Victor David Brenner (VDB) |
| Mint | San Francisco (“S” mintmark) |
| Mintage | 484,000 |
| Composition | 95% Copper, 2.5% Tin, 2.5% Zinc |
| Mass / Diameter | 3.11g / 19mm, plain edge |
| Years of Minting | 1909 (with VDB initials for a few days only) |
| Survival Estimates | ~50,000 in all grades; ~6,000 in MS‑60+; ~3,000 MS‑65+ |
| Grading Values (2025) | $2,000 to $200,000 depending on grade |
| Titanic-Linked Record | $200,000 sale (private transaction) |
| Historical Significance | First U.S. coin with Lincoln, iconic mint error |
Why This Coin Matters
Historical Symbolism
- It was the first U.S. coin to feature a real person, Abraham Lincoln, on the obverse
- The inclusion of the designer’s initials stirred public and political debate, cementing its place in coin lore
Rarity + Story = Legend
- Extremely low mintage
- Controversial recall
- Titanic survival tale
These elements make the 1909‑S VDB penny more than a coin—it’s a living story.
Preservation of Heritage
- Every surviving piece offers a glimpse into early 20th-century minting practices and public sentiment
- Coins like this are preserved in museums, private vaults, and auction houses as a testament to American numismatic evolution
The 1909‑S VDB Lincoln cent is more than just a rare coin—it’s a cultural artifact. From its controversial beginnings and low production numbers to its alleged link with the Titanic, it captures collectors’ imaginations like few others.
Whether you’re a seasoned investor or a passionate numismatist, this coin represents a remarkable opportunity to own a piece of history.
Its market value, now reaching $200,000 for Titanic-associated examples, speaks volumes about the enduring appeal of rarity, history, and mystery.
In a world overflowing with mass production and digital assets, the 1909‑S VDB penny stands as a timeless icon—one that survived disaster, scarcity, and time itself to become a cornerstone of American numismatics.
FAQs
Q1: How can I confirm a 1909‑S VDB penny is authentic?
Insist on professional certification from services like PCGS or NGC. Look for encapsulated examples with population data and, if possible, CAC verification for quality. Avoid raw coins unless verified by an expert.
Q2: What makes this penny worth over $200,000?
A combination of factors: extreme rarity, top-tier condition, and Titanic-linked provenance. A verified coin with ties to the Titanic disaster significantly boosts its collector and historical value.
Q3: Is the 1909‑S VDB penny a good investment in 2025?
Yes, but only with caution. Certified coins have appreciated in value over time. However, due diligence is essential due to counterfeit risks and market fluctuations.