An unassuming Christmas ornament box became the scene of a numismatic miracle when a homeowner discovered a 1909-S VDB Lincoln Wheat Penny tucked among old holiday decorations.
Unbeknownst to the family for decades, this rare coin is now estimated to be worth as much as $95,000, making it one of the most astonishing and valuable discoveries of the year.
Why the 1909-S VDB Penny is So Special
The 1909-S VDB penny is a prized possession in the world of coin collecting due to its extremely low mintage and historical importance.
It was the first year the Lincoln cent was introduced, and the initials of its designer, Victor David Brenner (V.D.B.), were included prominently on the reverse.
However, controversy led the U.S. Mint to halt production quickly, making these coins incredibly rare—especially those minted in San Francisco.
Only 484,000 coins were minted with both the “S” mint mark and the “V.D.B.” initials, making it one of the lowest production runs for a circulating U.S. coin.
Current Value and Market Insights
Today, the value of a 1909-S VDB penny varies widely depending on its condition, color (Brown, Red-Brown, or Red), and grading.
Mint State versions can command incredibly high prices, and coins with original mint luster or high-grade certifications from leading grading services are often sold at auctions for tens of thousands of dollars.
Valuation Table
| Condition/Grade | Estimated Value |
|---|---|
| Fine (F12) | $950 – $1,200 |
| Very Fine (VF20) | $1,200 – $2,000 |
| Extremely Fine (EF40) | $2,000 – $3,500 |
| About Uncirculated (AU50) | $4,000 – $6,500 |
| Mint State (MS63) | $12,000 – $25,000 |
| Mint State (MS65 Red) | $60,000 – $95,000 |
How to Identify an Authentic 1909-S VDB Penny
If you think you might have a similar coin hiding in an attic, here’s what to look for:
- Mint Mark: Look for a small “S” below the date on the obverse side.
- Initials “V.D.B.”: These appear at the bottom center of the reverse side between the wheat stalks.
- Sharp Details: A genuine piece shows crisp details, especially in Lincoln’s profile and lettering.
- Color and Condition: Red-colored coins (those with full original mint color) are valued highest.
Professional grading from trusted services can help verify authenticity and exact market value.
Why Values Keep Climbing
The 1909-S VDB penny continues to see strong demand from collectors, with its limited mintage and iconic story fueling price growth. The surprise find in a holiday box has reinvigorated interest in household coin hunts, proving that rare treasures may be closer than people think.
Coins of this kind are often passed down through generations unknowingly or misplaced in forgotten storage boxes. Because of its numismatic prestige and limited availability, its value is not just financial—it’s historical.
Real-Life Discovery: Found in a Christmas Ornament Box
The recent find occurred during a holiday cleanup, when a family sorting through old ornaments found a small envelope labeled “old coin.” Inside was a nearly pristine 1909-S VDB penny, resting in tissue paper for decades.
After professional evaluation, the coin was found to be in exceptional Mint State condition—commanding a value as high as $95,000.
The discovery of a 1909-S VDB penny in a box of Christmas ornaments is more than just a feel-good story—it’s a reminder of the hidden wealth that could be lying around in ordinary places.
With an estimated value of $95,000, this coin is a symbol of both history and hope for collectors and everyday Americans alike.
Whether you’re a seasoned numismatist or a curious beginner, now might be the perfect time to dig through that old holiday box—you never know what treasure you might uncover.
FAQs
How many 1909-S VDB pennies still exist today?
A1: Although 484,000 were minted, fewer survive today, especially in higher grades. Many are in collections, leaving limited availability in open markets.
Can I sell my 1909-S VDB penny without grading it?
A2: You can, but grading it through a professional service like PCGS or NGC can significantly increase its credibility and market value.
Where should I check if I’m hunting for rare coins at home?
A3: Look in old boxes, jars, attic trunks, Christmas decorations, desk drawers, and piggy banks—places where spare change may have been forgotten.