Genuine 1909-S VDB cents will have the VDB initials slightly slanted, specifically on the central crossbar of the letter “B.” These are just some of the diagnostics to use when examining 1909-S VDB Lincoln cents. If your coins look different, it is highly recommended that you send them to PCGS for authentication.
Can a 1909 VDB be used as a counterfeit?
If the forger uses a genuine 1909-S VDB as the “host” coin for a die-transfer counterfeit, then it is possible that the fake will have all of the markers noted above. Hopefully this article has helped to explain some of the steps taken by NGC’s graders to authenticate 1909-S VDB cents.
What makes the 1909 VDB Lincoln cent famous?
The 1909-S VDB Lincoln Cent is one of the most famous United States coins. Its status as a first year issue, its relatively low mintage of 484,000 pieces, and the interesting story of the “V.D.B.” initials combine to make the 1909-S VDB a particularly popular coin.
How many cents were issued with the VDB initials?
Only 484,000 Cents were issued with the VDB initials, creating an instant scarcity. It’s popularity has remained high ever since. The 1909-S VDB Cent ranked 14th in the second edition of “100 Greatest U.S. Coins” by Jeff Garrett and Ron Guth, reflecting the immense popularity of this date.
