My Revelation on the 1909 VDB 1c Proof – I Had No Idea!

As a long-time Lincoln cent collector, I thought I knew the classics inside and out—especially the 1909-S VDB. But then I discovered something that blew me away: the incredible value and rarity of the 1909 VDB proof cent. It’s not just another coin; it’s a numismatic wonder that has added a whole new layer of excitement to my collecting journey.

The Jaw-Dropping Value Shock

I was following an auction for a 1909 VDB proof cent graded MS67+ RD with CAC approval. The bidding war that erupted was intense—it started around $168,850 and shot up to a final hammer price of $275,625 (including buyer’s fees). Staggering, right? Especially when you consider the price guide estimate was $380,000! But what really shocked me was how this proof version completely overshadows the more famous 1909-S VDB. It’s in a different league, and it made me rethink everything I thought I knew about Lincoln cent rarities.

Unpacking the Matte Proof Mystique

As I looked into it, I found out that all proofs from 1909 to 1916 are matte proofs—and they’re real showstoppers. These coins often develop toning, like the reddish hues we saw in that auction piece, because they were stored in sulfur-rich tissue paper. It’s a beautiful feature, but it can be tricky: that toning can affect both eye appeal and value when it comes to grading. If you’re on the hunt for one of these, I’d suggest examining the surfaces under good light to spot the characteristic matte finish and any toning.

Rarity, Hoarding, and Market Dynamics

Now, here’s the fascinating part: the mintage for the 1909 VDB proof is 2,198, while the plain version (without the designer’s initials) is actually rarer with only 1,194 struck. But in top grades like PR65 RD, the VDB brings around $55,000 compared to just $1,800 for the plain—what a difference! I believe this gap comes down to survival rates and the story of a notorious hoarder who scooped up over 50 examples, effectively cornering the market. For collectors like me trying to build a 20th-century proof type set, it can be tough: the scarcity and high prices of the VDB are a real hurdle. Take the 1916 proof, for example—it has an even lower mintage of 1,050, but it doesn’t command anywhere near the same prices. That just goes to show the power of the VDB’s iconic status.

Practical Tips for Aspiring Collectors

After all this, I’ve put together a few tips for anyone interested in this high-stakes area:

• Pay close attention to grading: Always look for coins with RD (Red) designations and CAC stickers—they hold their value best. Toning can be a plus or minus, so make sure to document it well when submitting for grading.
• Keep an eye on the market: Prices can swing wildly, especially at auction. Watch registry sets (like the Red Copper Collection) for patterns—deep-pocketed bidders often jump in at the last minute.
• Set achievable goals: If you’re building a proof set, start with more affordable years and save up for the VDB. It’s a marathon, not a sprint—patience is key, especially given the hoarding history.

Even if owning one of these rarities is still a dream for me, learning about them has reignited my passion for coin collecting. It’s a great reminder that in this hobby, there’s always something new to learn—and sometimes it leaves you thinking, “Wow, I had no idea!”