The Lincoln cent has been a mainstay in our nation’s circulating coinage for over a century and is a series that includes some of the most iconic rarities in United States numismatics. Among the majestic Matte Proof issues of 1909 to 1916, the 1909 V.D.B. is by far the scarcest and most popular, produced at the very inception of the Lincoln cent series. While 1,194 coins were reportedly struck, only 400 to 600 examples of the Proof 1909 V.D.B. were actually distributed to contemporary collectors. The rest were likely destroyed in the Mint, probably shortly after modification of the design to remove Brenner’s initials. Many of the coins sold met some form of mishandling or were mistakenly spent, further reducing the number of survivors. Examples are exceptionally scarce today, and it is not uncommon for a sharp circulation-strike example to be passed off as a Proof. The present Proof-66 RB example comes with
the authentication of PCGS and the approval of CAC, asserting it as one of the finest survivors of this desirable issue. Rich golden amber saturates both sides of this incredible Gem, blanketed by a soft, undisturbed matte luster. There are also faint traces of blue and golden iridescence most prominent on the reverse. The fields are attractive and satiny, subtly contrasting with the sharply sculpted design elements. This lovely Matte Proof rarity will be featured in Rarities Night of our March 2017 Official Auction of the Whitman Coin & Collectibles Expo in Baltimore. To consign your collection to this exciting showcase event, please contact our offices today at 1-800-458-4646 to speak with a Consignment Director and see what Stack’s Bowers Galleries can do for you.
