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Lincoln Wheat Cents • 1909–1958 1909 VDB →
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1909 Lincoln Proof

Small Cents · Lincoln Wheat Cents · 1909–1958
Key date Proof
Weight3.11 g
Diameter19 mm
MintPhiladelphia
StrikeProof
Mintage 1,194 Proof; includes Lincoln and VDB varieties
EdgePlain
Alignment↑↓ Coin
Composition95% Copper, 5% Tin & Zinc
DesignerVictor D. Brenner
Collector's Key IDCK-424

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Varieties & References

Other recorded varieties for 1909:

External references

About this coinHistory

The 1909 proof Lincoln cent without VDB initials was struck after the Mint removed Brenner's initials from the dies in early August. The proof shows the Lincoln portrait in full mirrored relief, with the Wheat reverse sharply detailed and the fields deeply reflective. Approximately 2,198 proofs were struck for the year (across VDB and no-VDB versions combined), making the proof a scarce coin by the standards of early Lincoln cent proof production.

The 1909 proof is collected as the first proof of the Lincoln design. Proof Lincoln cents would be produced annually through 1916, suspended from 1917 to 1935, and then resumed in 1936. The 1909 proof inaugurated a tradition that continues to the present day. A well-preserved example with original red surfaces and deeply mirrored fields shows Brenner's portrait at its sharpest, free of the contact marks and handling wear that affect even the best circulation strikes.

Price guideReference

Reference data only — not an appraisal.

GradeDescriptionLowHigh
PR-63 Proof (PR) — —
Frequently Asked QuestionsFAQ
How many 1909 Lincoln Proof Lincoln Wheat Cents were minted?
1,194 were struck (Proof; includes Lincoln and VDB varieties).
What is a 1909 Lincoln Proof Lincoln Wheat Cent made of?
95% Copper, 5% Tin & Zinc, weighing 3.11 g.
What is the melt value of a 1909 Lincoln Proof Lincoln Wheat Cent?
Its melt value is its metal content multiplied by the current spot price. See our melt calculator on the metals pages for a live figure.
Is the 1909 Lincoln Proof Lincoln Wheat Cent a key date?
Yes — the 1909 Lincoln Proof Lincoln Wheat Cent is considered a key date in the Lincoln Wheat Cents series and commands a strong premium.