Rare finds spell huge fortunes for rare coin transactions, such as the 1909-S V.D.B. Lincoln Penny that made headlines when it went for a price exceeding that of a luxury Rolex watch. The surprise results of the recent auction for collectors and history buffs prove yet again that rare coins can truly be worth something.
A Penny Worth a Fortune
One of those coins highly sought after in U.S. numismatics is the 1909-S VDB Lincoln Wheat penny. Minted in San Francisco, this penny bears the initials “VDB” attributed to its designer, Victor David Brenner, but public outcry quickly forced their removal, meaning that the early version now ranks among the world’s rarest coins.
This penny has recently been auctioned and bore all signs of preservation. The little coin sold for a price that amounted to much more than that of a new Rolex Submariner, expected to start at about $10,000 for the cheapest model. The final figure isn’t disclosed, but reports say the amount shot beyond $100,000, marking one of the highest value pennies.
Why Is the 1909-S VDB Penny So Valuable?
There are several reasons the value of this particular coin is entering new realms.
- Restricted Production
Just 484,000 of these pennies were produced before minting the initials “VDB” was halted. Considering the varying numbers of production nowadays, this is absurdly low. - The Historical Impact
This penny was notable as the first to picture President Abraham Lincoln, a significant departure in the design of U.S. currency. For the most part, actual persons did not decorate U.S. coins until the introduction of this design in 1909, thus representing a landmark moment in American history. - Depending on the Condition
Not all 1909-S VDB pennies would bring a fortune. Only in well-preserved condition will all maximum prices be reached. In this case, the penny being discussed was graded nearly perfect, thus raising its rarity that much further. - Demand Among Collectors
Coin collectors are always on the lookout for key date coins that are both scarce and historically important. The 1909-S VDB penny fits perfect into this category, and therefore strongly sought after by numismatists.
The Allure of Rare Coins over Watches
Although luxury watches, like Rolex, are appreciated as valuable assets, the rank and rarity of historical coins may sometimes put them past the watches. Whereas a watch can be produced in thousands of numbers, a historical coin with an error or a limited production run stands out with its own variation.
These days, coin collecting is generally being embraced as an alternate investment. Rare coins, unlike the conventional stock or real estate, can appreciate in value over a protracted period, giving sometimes brilliant returns.
Do You Need To Check Your Pocket Change?
This sale reminds us to remember to examine plain sight for the existence of rare coins. While it may be next to impossible to find a 1909-S VDB penny in circulation, some other coins can be valuable. For example, certain older 1-cent pieces, dimes, and quarters from specific years can carry a value far greater than their face value.
Collectors suggest that watch checks should include information about dates, mint marks, and unique errors. You never know; one of those forgotten coins sitting quietly in a jar or an old drawer could end up bringing lots of money.
FAQS:
What makes this 1909-S VDB Lincoln Wheat Penny valuable?
This 1909-S VDB Lincoln Wheat Penny is rare because the mintage was quite low (only 484,000 were made), but also because the initials of the designer-VDB (for Victor David Brenner)-on the reverse stirred up quite a controversy. The mint later removed the initials, which makes this edition very desirable for collectors.
How much did the 1909-S VDB Lincoln Penny actually sell for?
At auction, recent prices for the 1909-S VDB penny have surpassed $100,000, and in the case of coins in high grades, prices may exceed $3,000, at times rivaling the cost of luxury watches such as Rolex.