1909-S VDB Wheat Cent: The First Lincoln, The Big Controversy

When the U.S. Mint introduced the Lincoln Wheat Cent in 1909 to honor the centennial of Abraham Lincoln's birth, it sparked one of the first coin design controversies in American history. The spotlight? A tiny set of initials: "V.D.B."

Background & History

The 1909-S VDB was designed by Victor David Brenner and marked the first time a real person appeared on circulating U.S. coinage. Minted in San Francisco with an "S" mintmark, only around 484,000 of these coins were produced with the designer’s initials before they were quickly removed due to public backlash. This limited run makes it one of the rarest and most sought-after Lincoln cents.

Designed by Victor David Brenner

First circulating U.S. coin to feature a real person

Minted in San Francisco ("S" mintmark)

Only ~484,000 coins minted with the initials before removal

Collector Value (as of 2025)

Today, the 1909-S VDB commands impressive prices across all grades due to its historical significance and rarity. High-grade examples are especially valuable.

  • G-4 (Good): ~$850
  • VF-20 (Very Fine): ~$1,500
  • MS-65 Red (Mint State): $4,500–$6,000+

How to Identify One

Genuine 1909-S VDB cents feature an "S" mintmark just below the date on the obverse. On the reverse, Brenner’s "V.D.B." initials are located along the bottom rim. Because of its notoriety, this coin is frequently counterfeited, so authenticity checks are essential.

  • Look for the "S" mintmark under the date

  • "V.D.B." initials on reverse bottom rim

  • Be cautious of counterfeits and altered coins

Metal Composition

Like most pre-1982 cents, the 1909-S VDB is composed primarily of copper. While its metal content holds minimal intrinsic value, the coin's historical importance drives its price.

  • 95% Copper, 5% Tin & Zinc

  • Weight: 3.11 grams

  • Value driven by numismatic appeal, not melt value

Fun Facts

Collectors have long revered the 1909-S VDB, which has become a cornerstone of Lincoln Cent collections. Its legacy is tied not just to its rarity but also to the debate over designer recognition.

  • Considered the "Holy Grail of Lincoln Cents"

  • Initials were removed due to public backlash in 1909

  • Brenner's initials returned discreetly in 1918 (on Lincoln's shoulder)

Final Word

Whether you’re a new collector or a seasoned numismatist, the 1909-S VDB Wheat Cent is a must-have for any serious U.S. coin collection. It captures a moment in history when design, legacy, and controversy collided — all on a copper penny.