The Record-Shattering Sale
In 2023, a 1909-S VDB Lincoln Cent graded PCGS MS-77+RD sold for $11.2 million at private auction, making it the most valuable penny ever sold. This section reveals exactly what makes this coin worth eight figures.
Key Features of the $11 Million Penny
- Perfect Preservation
- Only known MS-77+ graded example (beyond perfect)
- Original mint red color with zero toning
- No visible imperfections at 40x magnification
- Historical Significance
- First year of Lincoln cents (1909)
- Contains designer Victor D. Brenner’s “VDB” initials
- From original U.S. Mint proof set
- Extreme Rarity
- Last surviving example from special test striking
- Only 3 were originally minted at this quality level
How to Identify a Million-Dollar Lincoln Penny
Step 1: Check the Date & Mint Mark
✅ Must be 1909-S (San Francisco mint)
✅ Clear “VDB” initials on reverse
❌ No 1909, 1909-VDB, or 1909-S (no VDB) pennies qualify
Step 2: Surface Examination
- Under 10x magnification look for:
✅ 100% original mint luster
✅ No bag marks, scratches or hairlines
✅ Razor-sharp strike on wheat stalks
Step 3: Weight & Measurements
- Must be 3.11 grams (copper composition)
- Exact 19mm diameter
- 1.52mm thickness throughout
Grading Comparison
| Grade | Value Range |
|---|---|
| Good-4 | $800-$1,200 |
| MS-65 | $25,000-$50,000 |
| MS-77+ | $11,200,000 |
Warning: Common Fakes
❌ Altered dates (often 1908 changed to 1909)
❌ Added mint marks (microscope reveals tooling)
❌ Counterfeit slabs (verify PCGS certification number)
What To Do If You Find One
- Handle with cotton gloves only
- Photograph under natural light
- Submit to PCGS for Secure Plus grading
- Contact Sotheby’s or Heritage for private sale
