Skip to main content

The claim

The 1909-S V.D.B. Lincoln penny is the rarest and most valuable penny ever minted.

Original publisher’s rating

True. Rarity Historical Context: The 1909-S V.D.B. Lincoln penny is considered one of the rarest U.S. coins due to its limited mintage and high demand among collectors. The "S" mint mark indicates it was produced at the San Francisco Mint, and "V.D.B." refers to the initials of the designer, Victor David Brenner, who was later removed from the coin's reverse. Mintage: Only 484,000 of these pennies were minted, making it a rare find. The combination of its low mintage and the removal of Brenner’s initials contributed to its rarity. Current Market Value Grading Impact: The value of the 1909-S V.D.B. Lincoln penny varies significantly depending on its grade. Coins in higher grades (e.g., MS-65 or above) command much higher prices than those in lower grades. Value Range (as of 2024): In Poor to Fine Condition: Generally, values range from $2,000 to $3,000. In Very Fine to Extremely Fine Condition: Values typically range from $4,000 to $8,000. In Uncirculated Condition: Can range from $15,000 to $30,000, with exceptional pieces reaching higher amounts. In Mint State (MS-65 and higher): Values can exceed $50,000, with MS-67 examples fetching over $100,000. Market Trends Demand and Investment: The 1909-S V.D.B. Lincoln penny remains highly sought after due to its historical significance and rarity. It often appreciates in value, particularly as the market for rare coins continues to grow. Recent Sales: High-quality examples of this penny have been known to fetch record prices at auction, reflecting its status as a premier collectible. This information confirms the 1909-S V.D.B. Lincoln penny’s position as one of the rarest and most valuable pennies ever minted, with its market value driven by its rarity, historical significance, and the condition of the coin.

Reviewed by Bullion Shark ↗ ·

Read the original fact check ↗

Sources and attribution

  1. [S1] Bullion Shark original review

    Original review · Retrieved October 16, 2026

Original review: Bullion Shark. Structured data compiled by Data Commons under CC BY 4.0. Publisher article content is subject to its own terms.

Updated