1909 VDB Lincoln Cent MS-65 NGC (Red)

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In 1909, the United States introduced a dramatic change to its lowest-denomination coin, debuting a design that would become an enduring symbol of American currency. This copper one-cent piece features the profile of Abraham Lincoln on the obverse, facing right. Above his portrait, the familiar words of national trust are inscribed, with the word of liberty positioned to his left and the date of issue, 1909, placed to his right. The reverse of the coin displays a minimalist yet elegant frame of two wheat ears curving around the denomination. What makes this specific issue particularly famous are the initials of the designer, Victor David Brenner, which appear at the very bottom of the reverse. These initials, V.D.B., were removed shortly after production began, making this initial run of nearly 28 million pieces a highly studied and celebrated chapter in numismatic history. This particular specimen is preserved in an exceptional state of preservation, graded Mint State 65 (MS-65) with a vibrant red designation. Fully backed by the United States government, this coin represents the very beginning of the beloved Lincoln Cent series, captured in a condition that allows every detail of the original engraving to be appreciated.