It’s not every day someone finds a fortune sitting inside an old drawer — but that’s exactly what happened when a dusty 1909 wheat penny, long forgotten in a home collection, turned out to be worth a staggering $7 million.
This isn’t a myth or urban legend. Rare coin collectors and appraisers confirmed that the unassuming cent, tucked away for decades, is one of the finest-known examples of the 1909-S VDB wheat penny, one of the most sought-after coins in American numismatic history.
And the biggest shock? Versions of this rare coin are still being discovered by ordinary people.
What Makes the 1909 Wheat Penny So Special?
The 1909 wheat penny holds historical and collectible value for multiple reasons. It was the first U.S. penny to feature President Abraham Lincoln — replacing the Indian Head design — and marked the 100th anniversary of Lincoln’s birth.
Designed by artist Victor David Brenner, the original coin included his initials “V.D.B.” on the reverse side, nestled between the two wheat stalks. However, the public criticized the prominence of these initials, and they were quickly removed — making those original versions instantly rare.
The most prized version? The 1909-S VDB penny, minted in San Francisco with only 484,000 coins ever produced.
Why This Particular Penny Was Worth $7 Million
The recently discovered penny was evaluated as a near-mint specimen, earning an elite Mint State (MS68) grade. With nearly perfect preservation and extreme rarity, it fetched $7 million at a private auction attended by elite collectors worldwide.
This sale has now become one of the most expensive Lincoln pennies ever sold — and it’s sparking a massive renewed interest in pocket change across the country.
Could You Have One Too?
You might be wondering, “Is this just a collector’s dream — or could I actually find one?”
Surprisingly, the answer is yes. Although ultra-rare, lower-grade versions of the 1909 wheat penny, including the VDB and S-marked editions, still surface in old coin jars, inherited collections, and estate sales. Some people have even spotted them in loose change, completely unaware of their value.
How to Identify a Valuable 1909 Wheat Penny:
Check your penny for these key features:
- Date: Look for 1909 on the obverse side.
- Mint Mark: A small “S” under the date indicates San Francisco minting.
- V.D.B. Initials: Flip the coin over and check the bottom center of the reverse side — the initials should be visible between the wheat stalks.
If your penny has all three — 1909 + S mint mark + V.D.B. — you may be holding something worth thousands, or even millions.
Final Thoughts
The story of a $7 million 1909 wheat penny found in a drawer is more than a collector’s fantasy — it’s a reminder that everyday objects can hold extraordinary value. As coin experts and collectors continue to chase after these rare cents, it’s worth taking a second look at that old jar of coins or family keepsake box.
Because who knows? The next legendary penny could be sitting just a few feet away — in your own home.
FAQ’s:
Q1. What makes the 1909 wheat penny worth $7 million?
A1. The 1909-S VDB wheat penny is extremely rare due to limited mintage and the early removal of the designer’s initials, especially in near-mint condition.
Q2. How can I tell if I have the valuable version of the 1909 wheat penny?
A2. Look for the 1909 date, an “S” mint mark under the year, and “V.D.B.” initials on the back between the wheat stalks.
Q3. Can 1909 wheat pennies still be found in circulation?
A3. While extremely rare, some versions still turn up in old coin collections, drawers, and loose change — especially lower-grade ones.
