1909-S VDB Lincoln Cent MS-64 PCGS (Red)

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The year 1909 marked a major transition for the United States one cent piece, introducing a design that would become an enduring symbol of American coinage. This particular specimen, struck at the San Francisco Mint, represents one of the most famous and sought-after issues in the entire Lincoln Cent series. With a remarkably low mintage of just 484,000 pieces, it stands as a legendary rarity from the inaugural year of the design. This coin is certified in Mint State 64 with a Red designation, indicating it retains much of its original, lustrous copper color. The obverse features the classic portrait of Abraham Lincoln accompanied by the inscriptions LIBERTY and the date 1909, alongside the motto IN GOD WE TRUST. The reverse displays the denomination ONE CENT and the country name UNITED STATES OF AMERICA, framed by two wheat ears. What makes this specific issue incredibly famous are the three tiny initials located at the very bottom of the reverse: V.D.B. These letters, representing the designer, were removed shortly after production began, making this original 1909-S VDB variety an incredibly compelling piece of history for anyone exploring the evolution of American money.