What if that old penny rattling around in your change jar or stuck under your car seat was actually worth a small fortune? While it might sound like the setup for a coin collector’s fantasy, this kind of discovery happens more often than you’d expect. In fact, one particular historic penny, worth well into six figures, has been confirmed to still appear in everyday circulation — even in the 21st century.
This coin isn’t just rare — it represents a unique moment in American history. And the best part? It looks so ordinary that many people have unknowingly spent it on a cup of coffee or passed it along in a handful of change.
Let’s dive into the story behind this incredible coin, how it came to be so valuable, and — most importantly — how you can recognize it before it leaves your hands.
The Penny in Question: The 1909-S VDB Lincoln Cent
At the heart of this mystery lies the 1909-S VDB Lincoln Cent — one of the most sought-after coins in American numismatic history. This humble-looking penny, first minted over a century ago, has fetched prices as high as $100,000+ at auction, depending on its condition.
But why is a single penny, with a face value of one cent, commanding such a massive price tag?
It comes down to a perfect storm of history, controversy, rarity, and collector demand.
A Coin With a Story: Birth of the Lincoln Cent
The 1909 Lincoln Cent was created to commemorate the 100th birthday of President Abraham Lincoln. It marked a significant moment — it was the first time a real historical figure appeared on a U.S. coin. Prior to this, American coins featured allegorical figures like Lady Liberty, not actual people.
The U.S. Mint commissioned sculptor Victor David Brenner to design the coin. Brenner placed his initials — “V.D.B.” — prominently on the reverse (back) of the penny, at the bottom between the two wheat stalks.
That design, however, stirred controversy. Critics accused Brenner of promoting himself too boldly on a government-issued coin. The outcry led to a rapid decision by the Mint: remove the initials.
But by the time that decision was made, a limited number of the 1909 Lincoln cents bearing the “VDB” had already been minted. Even fewer of those were struck at the San Francisco Mint — which adds the “S” mint mark to coins.
How Rare Is the 1909-S VDB Penny?
Let’s look at the numbers:
- Total 1909 Lincoln cents with VDB (Philadelphia Mint): Approx. 27 million
- Total 1909-S VDB Lincoln cents (San Francisco Mint): Only 484,000
That means less than half a million of these coins were ever made — and many have been lost, destroyed, or heavily circulated.
It’s estimated that fewer than 50,000 remain in collectible condition today.
This combination of low mintage, historical significance, and collector buzz makes the 1909-S VDB one of the most iconic and valuable U.S. coins.
Still Found in Circulation?
Yes — and that’s the wildest part of this story.
While rare, there are confirmed stories of the 1909-S VDB penny being discovered in:
- Coin jars
- Change from cash transactions
- Bank-wrapped penny rolls
- Inherited collections
- Antique stores or flea markets
In 2010, a teenager from the Midwest found one in his grandfather’s coffee tin. It was well-worn but still clearly bore the “S” and “VDB” marks. He had it professionally graded and ultimately sold it for $72,000.
In another case, a coin roll hunter in California reported finding one in a box of $25 in bank pennies. He paid a quarter of a cent for it — and later had it valued at nearly $40,000.
These aren’t just urban legends — they’re proof that valuable coins are still hiding in plain sight.
How to Identify a 1909-S VDB Penny
If you’re wondering whether you might be holding one of these historic coins, here’s what to look for:
1. The Date: 1909
Make sure the date reads clearly as 1909 on the front (obverse) of the coin.
2. The Mint Mark: “S”
Look just below the date. If there’s a small “S” mint mark, it means the coin was struck in San Francisco — that’s key. No “S”? Then it’s either a Philadelphia mint or a different issue.
3. The VDB Initials
Flip the coin over to the back (reverse). At the bottom, between the two wheat stalks, check for the initials “V.D.B.” If they’re there, congratulations — you’re holding a VDB issue.
Only coins that have all three of these features — 1909, “S” mint mark, and “VDB” initials on the reverse — are the six-figure rarities.
Grading Matters: Condition Is Key
Like with any collectible, condition plays a big role in determining value. Coin collectors use a 70-point grading scale:
- G-4 (Good): Very worn, but identifiable
- VG-8 to F-12 (Very Good to Fine): Moderate wear
- VF-20 to EF-40 (Very Fine to Extremely Fine): Moderate to light wear
- AU-50+ (Almost Uncirculated): Light wear, strong details
- MS-60 to MS-70 (Mint State): Uncirculated, perfect condition
A 1909-S VDB in G-4 condition might fetch $600 to $1,000, while one in MS-65 Red (bright copper tone, uncirculated) has sold for over $100,000.
So even if your coin isn’t pristine, it could still be worth thousands.
How to Start Searching for Rare Pennies
If you’re intrigued, here’s how to begin your own penny-hunting journey:
1. Check Your Change
Always scan your pocket change, coin jars, and old piggy banks. Older pennies are still circulating.
2. Visit Your Bank
Ask for rolls of pennies — usually $25 per box. Coin roll hunting is one of the most affordable hobbies around.
3. Use Basic Tools
- Magnifying glass: To examine details like mint marks
- Reference guides or apps: Like PCGS CoinFacts or the NGC app
- Coin scale: To detect anomalies in weight (helpful for rare mint errors)
4. Explore Antique Stores and Estate Sales
Many valuable coins wind up hidden in old tins, jars, or sock drawers.
Why Penny Collecting Is Booming
The rise of online marketplaces like eBay, YouTube collectors, and TikTok influencers has brought coin collecting into the mainstream.
More people than ever are learning how to spot rare coins and flipping their finds for profit.
And with the rising value of copper and silver, even junk change is gaining value.
This growing interest means rarer coins are in higher demand — and prices are climbing.
What NOT to Do: Don’t Clean Your Coins!
One of the worst mistakes new collectors make is cleaning their coins. This can drastically reduce the value. Even if it looks dull or dirty, leave it alone. Collectors and grading services prefer original surfaces — cleaning often scratches or damages the coin.
What to Do If You Think You’ve Found One
If you suspect you have a 1909-S VDB — or any rare coin — follow these steps:
- Take clear photos (front and back)
- Do basic research to compare features
- Avoid handling it too much — use cotton gloves if possible
- Contact a professional grader like PCGS or NGC
- Never sell to someone without knowing its value
Final Thoughts: Could You Be Holding History?
The idea that a six-figure coin is still floating around in spare change may sound incredible, but it’s very real. The 1909-S VDB penny is a historic artifact, a product of controversy, and one of the most desirable U.S. coins in circulation.
And it’s still out there.
So next time you find yourself sifting through pocket change or digging through your grandparents’ attic, take a second look. You never know — that dirty old penny might just be worth $100,000 or more.
After all, history doesn’t always look shiny — sometimes, it’s hiding in plain sight, copper-colored and unassuming.
