1909 V.D.B. Matte Proof Lincoln Penny Front
The Lincoln pennies were first introduced in 1909. They initially came with the letters “V.D.B,” which was the initials of the designer. You will find these letters on the bottom rear side. The initials were too prominent for many people, so they were eventually taken out. Over half a million ones have them.
1909 V.D.B. Matte Proof Lincoln Penny Front
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1909 V.D.B. Matte Proof Lincoln Penny Back
The penny in the photo was made with a matte proof die. This method required fewer strikes when compared to a traditional die. There were only 1,194 coins struck this way before the U.S. removed the initials. Heritage Auctions in Chicago sold one in excellent condition for $258,500 in August 2014.
1909 V.D.B. Matte Proof Lincoln Penny Front Back
