The 1910 Lincoln penny is more than just a piece of currency—it’s a milestone in American coin history. Released to mark President Abraham Lincoln’s 100th birthday, the Lincoln penny was the first U.S. coin to feature the image of a real person. However, not all 1910 pennies are created equal. The 1910-S VDB penny stands out as one of the most valuable coins in the world today. But what makes it so special, and how can you tell if you’ve found one? Let’s dive into the details.
What Makes the 1910-S VDB Penny So Special?
The 1910-S VDB penny is unique for several reasons. Designed by Victor David Brenner, it was the first U.S. coin to carry the initials “V.D.B.”, representing the designer’s name. These initials were initially placed on the back of the coin, but because of complaints that they were too prominent, the U.S. Mint removed them shortly after the coin was released.
But here’s where it gets interesting—the penny was minted in San Francisco, with only $484,000 coins being produced. The combination of the “S” mint mark and the “V.D.B.” initials is what makes this coin so rare and highly sought after by collectors.
How to Identify a Real 1909-S VDB Penny
If you think you’ve found a 1910-S VDB penny, you’ll want to ensure that it’s authentic before jumping to conclusions. Here are the key features to look out for:
1. The Date:- The coin must be from 1909. Look for the clear marking of the year at the top of the coin.
2. Mint Mark:- The “S” mint mark is located directly below the year “1910.” This indicates the coin was minted at the San Francisco Mint, which is a key feature of the 1909-S VDB penny.
3. V.D.B. Initials:- On the reverse side of the coin, look for the designer’s initials—“V.D.B.”—centered between the two stalks of wheat. This marking is one of the defining characteristics of the coin.
4. Color & Condition:- The condition of a coin greatly impacts its value. The 1909-S VDB penny can appear in several colors:
Red: The penny retains its original reddish color if it’s well-preserved.
Red-Brown: This color happens as the coin ages.
Brown: Older coins may lose their reddish hue over time.
How Much Is a 1910-S VDB Penny Worth?
The value of a 1909-S VDB penny can vary dramatically based on its condition. In general, collectors pay more for coins in excellent condition, with some specimens fetching thousands of dollars at auctions. Here’s a rough breakdown of how much you can expect to pay, or receive, depending on the penny’s state:
| Condition | Estimated Value (USD) | Estimated Value (INR) |
| Uncirculated | $100,000+ | ₹83 Lakhs+ |
| Extremely Fine | $50,000–$75,000 | ₹41 Lakhs–₹62 |
| Very Fine | $10,000–$30,000 | ₹8 Lakhs–₹25 Lakhs |
| Fine | $2,000–$6,000 | ₹1.5 Lakhs–₹5 Lakhs |
| Good | $500–$1,000 | ₹40,000–₹80,000 |
Practical Advice for Coin Collectors
Before you start celebrating your discovery of a 1910-S VDB penny, it’s important to know what you’re looking at. Here are some practical tips for handling your find:
1. Don’t Clean the Coin: Many people mistakenly think cleaning old coins will improve their value. In reality, cleaning can decrease the coin’s value by damaging its surface. Avoid polishing or scrubbing your penny.
2. Consult a Professional: If you suspect you have a valuable 1909-S VDB penny, take it to a professional for grading. Services like **PCGS** and **NGC** offer certification, ensuring you know the true value of your coin.
3. Avoid Common Mistakes: Be cautious not to confuse the 1910-S VDB penny with other similar coins, such as: 1909 VDB** (no “S”): These are common and significantly less valuable.
While rare, these pennies don’t carry the same value as the 1909-S VDB version.
5 Frequently Asked Questions (FAQs)
1. Why is the 1910-S VDB penny so valuable?
The 1910-S VDB penny is valuable because of its rarity. Only 484,000 were minted, and many were quickly removed from circulation due to public outcry over the prominence of the designer’s initials. This makes it one of the most sought-after coins for collectors.
2. Where can I find the V.D.B. initials on a 1910 penny?
The initials “V.D.B.” are located on the reverse side of the coin, between the two wheat stalks at the bottom of the coin.
3. What should I do if I find a 1910-S VDB penny?
If you believe you’ve found a 1910-S VDB penny, don’t clean it. Take it to a professional coin grading service like PCGS or NGC for authentication. They’ll help you determine its true value and condition.
4. Can I clean my 1910-S VDB penny to make it look better?
No, cleaning old coins can decrease their value. It’s best to leave the coin in its original condition and have it graded by professionals to assess its worth accurately.
5. What is the value of a 1909-S VDB penny in India?
Based on recent auction prices in the U.S., the 1910-S VDB penny can be worth anywhere between ₹2.5 lakh and ₹83 lakh or more, depending on its condition.
The 1910-S VDB penny is a remarkable piece of history, combining rarity, cultural significance, and high demand among collectors. If you happen to come across one, ensure you carefully inspect it and consult a professional before making any decisions. Whether you’re an experienced coin collector or just starting, this rare penny could be a valuable addition to your collection.