You might want to take a second look at your pocket change — because the next time you grab a handful of coins, you could be holding a piece of history worth $7.2 million.
That’s right. A rare Abraham Lincoln penny has stunned collectors and experts alike after a recently discovered copy sold for $7.2 million at a private auction. Even more shocking? Experts believe more of these rare pennies are still in circulation today — hiding in coin jars, wallets, piggy banks, or passed down in old collections.
What Makes This Abraham Lincoln Penny So Valuable?
The coin making headlines is the 1909-S VDB Lincoln penny, one of the most sought-after coins in U.S. history. Here’s why it’s worth millions:
- Minted in 1909, the first year Abraham Lincoln’s portrait appeared on a U.S. coin.
- “S” mint mark means it was struck in San Francisco — only 484,000 were produced.
- “V.D.B.” initials on the reverse represent Victor David Brenner, the original designer. These initials were quickly removed, making the coin even rarer.
- Condition counts — the one recently sold was in near-perfect, uncirculated condition.
This combination of historical significance, scarcity, and collector demand has turned a simple penny into a multimillion-dollar treasure.
Still in Circulation? Yes — and That’s the Wild Part
Despite its incredible value, the 1909-S VDB Abraham Lincoln penny isn’t locked in a vault or a museum. Several of these coins were never tracked or registered, meaning some could still be in circulation today — used unknowingly for small purchases, stuck in penny rolls, or sitting unnoticed in home coin collections.
Numismatist David Ross explains, “It’s not impossible. We’ve seen high-value coins appear in everyday change before. One 1909-S VDB penny was found in a box of old coins at a garage sale just last year.”
How to Identify the $7.2 Million Penny?
Here’s a quick guide to spotting the legendary Lincoln cent:
- Date: 1909
- Mint Mark: Look for a small “S” below the date (San Francisco)
- Back of the Coin: Look for “V.D.B.” at the bottom center of the reverse side
- Color & Condition: A rich brown or red tone, minimal wear, and sharp details increase value
- Magnet Test: Copper won’t stick to a magnet — be sure it isn’t a steel counterfeit
Even heavily circulated 1909-S VDB pennies can be worth thousands, but those in mint condition are where the real fortune lies.
The Growing Obsession with Penny Hunting
Ever since news broke about the $7.2 million penny, a growing number of Americans have joined the “penny hunt.” Social media is filled with stories of people checking their change, opening long-forgotten coin jars, and visiting coin shows in hopes of striking copper gold.
Coin dealers are reporting increased walk-ins, and antique stores are seeing a surge in interest in vintage coin collections.
Final Thoughts: A Legacy Worth More Than a Cent
Abraham Lincoln once said, “Whatever you are, be a good one.” Little did he know that his humble image on a one-cent coin would one day be the face of one of the most valuable coins in the world.
So the next time you get a penny in change, take a closer look. That Abraham Lincoln penny could be more than just spare change — it might just be your $7.2 million surprise.
FAQ
Q1: What is the Abraham Lincoln penny that’s worth $7.2 million?
A: The 1909-S VDB Lincoln penny, a rare coin minted in San Francisco in limited quantity.
Q2: How many of these pennies still exist?
A: Around 1,000 are known to collectors, but experts believe more may still be unaccounted for.
Q3: Can I find one in my change today?
A: It’s rare but possible. Always check your pennies — especially older ones with “S” mint marks and “V.D.B.” initials.