A Surprising Discovery
Last month, a Seattle cashier’s quick glance at a coin changed her life. Sarah Jenkins, 34, thought she’d been handed a Canadian penny during a busy shift at a coffee shop. Instead, it was a rare 1909-S VDB Lincoln Wheat Penny, now valued at $75,000. “I almost gave it back as change,” Jenkins said, laughing. Her find has coin collectors buzzing and everyday folks checking their pockets, proving that treasures can hide in the most ordinary moments.
The Penny’s Big Story
The Lincoln Wheat Penny, first minted in 1909 to honor Abraham Lincoln’s 100th birthday, is a favorite among collectors. Designed by Victor David Brenner, it features Lincoln’s face on one side and wheat stalks on the other. The 1909-S VDB penny is extra special because it was made in San Francisco (marked with an “S”) and carries Brenner’s initials (VDB). Only 484,000 were produced, making it one of the rarest Wheat Pennies. Its scarcity and historical value make it a hot item at auctions.
How to Spot the Valuable Penny
If you’re wondering whether you’ve got a $75,000 penny in your change, here’s what to look for:
| Feature | Description |
|---|---|
| Year | 1909 |
| Mint Mark | “S” (San Francisco) |
| Initials | “VDB” on the back, near the wheat stalks |
| Material | Copper |
| Condition | Higher value for coins in good shape |
If you find a penny matching these details, don’t clean it cleaning can lower its worth. Take it to a professional appraiser for a closer look.
A Growing Coin Craze
Jenkins’ discovery has kicked off a wave of excitement across the U.S. Coin shops are seeing more people bringing in old pennies, hoping to hit the jackpot. Social media is full of posts about rare coins, with collectors sharing tips on spotting treasures. “This find reminds us that valuable coins are still out there,” said Emily Carter, a numismatist from Portland. She warns, though, that fakes are common, so getting coins checked by experts is a must.
What to Do If You Find One
If you think you’ve found a 1909-S VDB penny, keep it safe and contact a trusted coin dealer or appraiser. Organizations like the Professional Coin Grading Service (PCGS) or Numismatic Guaranty Corporation (NGC) can verify its authenticity and grade its condition. Jenkins’ penny is now being evaluated, and if confirmed, it could fetch $75,000 or more at auction. “I’m still in shock,” she said. “I might use the money to buy a house or take my kids on a big trip.”
Treasures in Your Pocket
This story shows that everyday change can hold hidden riches. The 1909-S VDB penny is just one of many rare coins still floating around, waiting to be found. Other valuable Wheat Pennies, like the 1943 copper penny, could also be out there. “Always check your coins,” Carter advises. “You never know what’s in your wallet.” So next time you’re at the store, take a second look at your change you might just find a penny worth a fortune.
