1909 (S) Lincoln Wheat Cent
Strike Type
Coin Details
Value Estimates
Values as of May 2026 — estimates reflect typical grades (G-4 through MS-63). Coins in lower or exceptional grades may fall outside this range.
Auction Record
$1,680 UNC Details 04-12-2023 Stack's Bowers
Description
The 1909 (S) Lincoln Wheat Cent is a cent produced at the San Francisco Mint as part of the Lincoln Wheat Cents 1909-1958 series. With a mintage of 1.8 million, this is a scarce issue — ranked 2nd of 4 mint variants by mintage, with 2% of production. The obverse features Abraham Lincoln facing right, the first real person depicted on a U.S. circulating coin and the reverse displays two wheat stalks framing ONE CENT, symbolizing American agriculture. First year of the Lincoln Cent. The "VDB" initials on the reverse caused a public outcry, and cents without VDB quickly followed. Struck at the San Francisco Mint, established during the California Gold Rush and now primarily producing proof and collector coins. Estimated market value ranges from $117 to $527 depending on grade and condition. Struck in 95% copper, 5% tin and zinc, weighing 3.11 grams, 19 mm in diameter, with a plain edge. Cataloged as PCGS #2432.
External References
Error Varieties(8)
1909-S Repunched Mintmark RPM-001
1909-S Repunched Mintmark RPM-002
1909-S Repunched Mintmark WRPM-001
1909-S Repunched Mintmark WRPM-002
1909-S VDDR VDDR-001
1909-S VDDR VDDR-002
1909-S VDDR VDDR-003
