Numismatic

1909-S VDB Lincoln Cent MS-61 NGC (Brown)

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The 1909-S VDB Lincoln Cent represents one of the most famous chapters in American numismatic history. This copper coin features the classic profile of Abraham Lincoln on its obverse, accompanied by the inscriptions "IN GOD WE TRUST" and "LIBERTY" alongside the 1909 date. The reverse showcases two wheat ears framing the denomination "ONE CENT" and "UNITED STATES OF AMERICA". What makes this specific issue legendary is the presence of the designer's initials, V.D.B., at the bottom of the reverse. Shortly after production began at the San Francisco Mint, a public controversy erupted regarding the prominence of Victor D. Brenner's initials. This outcry prompted the rapid removal of the initials from the design, halting production after a mere 484,000 coins were struck. This incredibly brief manufacturing window resulted in an exceptionally low mintage, cementing this coin's status as a premier rarity in the Lincoln Cent series. This particular specimen is certified in Mint State 61 (MS-61) condition with a brown designation. It stands as a remarkable survivor from the very first year of the Lincoln penny, preserving a design debate that changed the face of United States coinage.