The Lincoln Wheat Penny Valued at $100000: Have you ever considered that a simple penny might be worth more than a luxury car? This isn’t a fantasy but a reality when it comes to the 1909-S Lincoln Wheat Penny with the designer’s initials “V.D.B.” This tiny copper coin, no bigger than a thumbnail, can fetch up to $100,000 if found in excellent condition. What makes this story even more fascinating is that some of these valuable pennies might still be circulating today—perhaps sitting forgotten in an old jar or being passed along as ordinary change.
The Historic First Lincoln Penny
The 1909 Lincoln Wheat Penny holds special significance in American numismatic history. It marked the first major design change in the one-cent piece and was created to commemorate the 100th anniversary of Abraham Lincoln’s birth. Before this, American coins traditionally featured symbolic figures like Lady Liberty rather than actual historical figures. The Lincoln penny broke this tradition, establishing a new era in American coinage that continues to this day.
Why the “S” and “V.D.B.” Matter So Much
What makes this particular penny extraordinarily valuable is the combination of three crucial features. First, it was minted in San Francisco, indicated by the small “S” mintmark below the date. Second, it bears the initials “V.D.B.” (for the designer Victor David Brenner) on the reverse side between the wheat stalks. Third, it was produced in very limited quantities. Only 484,000 of these pennies were ever minted—a tiny number compared to the millions typically produced for circulation.
Shortly after the coin’s release, public controversy erupted over the prominence of the designer’s initials. The Mint quickly removed them, but not before a small number of pennies had already entered circulation. This quick design change created an instant rarity that has only become more valuable with time.
The Impressive Value of This Small Coin
The 1909-S V.D.B. Lincoln Wheat Penny’s value varies dramatically based on its condition. Coins showing significant wear might fetch several thousand dollars, while those in pristine, uncirculated condition can reach that remarkable $100,000 price point at auction. The condition is graded on a scale from Poor (barely identifiable) to Mint State (perfect condition), with each grade level potentially adding thousands to the coin’s value.
What’s particularly interesting about this penny is how its value has consistently increased over time. Coins that might have sold for a few hundred dollars in the 1950s are now worth tens of thousands, making them not just collector’s items but legitimate investment assets.
How to Identify This Valuable Penny
If you’re curious whether you might have this treasure hiding in your collection, there are several key features to check. First, look for the date—1909 is what you need. Then examine the area directly below the date on the front of the coin for a small “S” mintmark. This letter indicates it was produced at the San Francisco Mint rather than Philadelphia or Denver.
Next, flip the coin over and look at the very bottom of the reverse side, between the wheat stalks. If you see the initials “V.D.B.” engraved there, you might have the rare and valuable variety. The lettering should be clearly visible but not overly prominent.
Be aware that due to this coin’s high value, counterfeits exist. Genuine coins have a specific weight, feel, and patina that experts can recognize. If you believe you’ve found one, resist the urge to clean it—cleaning can significantly reduce a coin’s value by removing its natural patina and creating microscopic scratches.
Could You Still Find One Today?
While most 1909-S V.D.B. pennies have been identified and collected over the years, there’s still a possibility that some remain in circulation. Stories occasionally emerge of lucky individuals finding these rare coins in forgotten collections, inherited coin jars, or even in everyday transactions. People who don’t know the coin’s value might spend it unknowingly, giving others the chance to discover this small fortune.
What to Do If You Find This Valuable Penny
If you believe you’ve discovered a 1909-S V.D.B. Lincoln Wheat Penny, handle it carefully by its edges to avoid damaging the surfaces. Never clean it, as this can dramatically reduce its value. Instead, place it in a protective holder and consult with a reputable coin dealer or professional grading service. These experts can authenticate your find and help determine its precise value based on its condition.
The story of the $100,000 penny reminds us that extraordinary value can hide in ordinary places. While the odds of finding this particular rare coin may be slim, the possibility makes checking your change a potentially rewarding habit. Sometimes, the most valuable treasures are hiding in plain sight, just waiting to be discovered by someone who knows what to look for.
