My Astonishing Discovery with the 1909 VDB Proof: I Had No Idea!

You know, I’ve been exploring Lincoln cent history lately, and the 1909 VDB Proof stopped me in my tracks. Like most collectors, I knew the 1909-S VDB was iconic, but seeing the proof version’s value? That blew me away. This isn’t just rare—it’s the rock star of Lincoln cents, with prices that’ll make you do a double-take. Let me walk you through what makes this coin so special.

When Auction Prices Defy Belief

I still remember my reaction seeing that recent auction hammer price—$275,625 for a single 1909 VDB Proof graded MS67+ RD CAC! That’s not just high; it’s in another universe compared to the regular 1909-S VDB. Top-tier examples can approach $380,000, which tells you how unpredictable this market gets. Watch those final auction moments—collectors with serious budgets often emerge out of nowhere, turning bidding into a heavyweight bout.

Matte Proofs and Their Colorful Secrets

Here’s something I found fascinating: every Lincoln proof from 1909-1916 was struck as a matte proof, including our 1909 VDB. They’re breathtaking coins, but most develop colorful toning over time. Blame the original sulfur-packed tissue paper! When you’re examining one, pay attention to that rainbow patina—it’s part of the coin’s journey. And if you find one with strong red (RD) designation? Hold onto it. That vibrant color makes all the difference, like that auction superstar that kept its fiery hue.

Why This Coin Defies Mintage Logic

Get this—the mint produced 2,198 VDB proofs compared to just 1,194 plain versions. Yet the VDB trades for about $55,000 in PR65 RD versus $1,800 for the plain. Why? Those three little letters—VDB—turn it into a trophy coin. But there’s more: rumor has it one collector hoarded over 50 surviving examples! That scarcity means if you’re building a 20th-century proof set, this might be your Everest.

Smart Moves for Collectors

Chasing this coin? Here’s what I’d suggest:

• Grading is gospel: Only consider PCGS/NGC-certified coins with RD labels. CAC approval? That’s the golden ticket.
• Auctions demand vigilance: Set up alerts on GreatCollections—prices can explode without warning.
• Start smaller: The 1909 Plain matte proof offers similar beauty without the heart-stopping price tag.
• Love the toning: Those rainbow hues tell a story, just ensure they don’t hide important details.

I’ll confess—I’ve dreamed of owning one. But those prices? They’re a reality check. Sometimes the greatest coins are the ones we admire from a distance. The 1909 VDB Proof teaches us what makes collecting magical: that perfect storm of history, scarcity, and pure desire.