Numismatic

1909-S VDB Lincoln Cent VG-10 NGC (Brown)

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The 1909-S VDB Lincoln Cent represents a monumental moment in American coinage, marking the very first year of the iconic Lincoln penny series. Struck in copper at the San Francisco Mint, this specific coin has been graded in Very Good 10 condition. It carries a distinct history due to its incredibly low mintage of just 484,000 pieces, making it one of the most famous and sought-after issues in the entire run of United States cents. Designed by Victor David Brenner, the obverse of the coin features the classic profile portrait of Abraham Lincoln facing right. Above his image, the timeless motto "IN GOD WE TRUST" is inscribed, while "LIBERTY" stands to the left of the portrait and the date "1909" is positioned to the right. Just below the date, the small "S" mint mark indicates its origin from the San Francisco facility. The reverse of the coin displays a clean, elegant design featuring two stalks of wheat flanking the denomination. This early issue is particularly famous for bearing the designer's initials, V.D.B., which were placed on the reverse design. This coin, preserved in a certified Very Good state with a rich brown copper patina, offers a fascinating look at the very beginning of a design that would define American pocket change for generations.