Lincoln Penny Found Behind Wall Clock Is Driving Collectors Wild

In a quiet New England town, an ordinary kitchen renovation turned into a remarkable historical find. Homeowner Sarah Whitmore stumbled upon an old Lincoln penny behind a wall clock—a coin that’s now sparking excitement among collectors and historians.

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While remodeling her kitchen, Whitmore’s contractor removed a timeworn wall clock that hadn’t budged in decades. To everyone’s surprise, a small copper coin fell out, hitting the floor with a soft clink. At first, Whitmore assumed it was just an ordinary Lincoln penny. However, a closer look revealed the date: 1909-S VDB, a rare and highly sought-after coin in the world of numismatics.

A Rare and Valuable Find

The 1909-S VDB Lincoln penny is a piece of American history. It was the first year the Lincoln cent was issued, featuring the initials of its designer, Victor David Brenner, prominently on the reverse. Struck in San Francisco, only 484,000 of these special pennies were minted before public complaints about the initials led to a redesign. Today, this particular Lincoln penny is known as one of the rarest and most valuable coins in circulation.

Coin expert Greg Holloway of the American Numismatic Association confirms, “The 1909-S VDB is one of the most coveted coins in American coin collecting. Even well-worn examples can sell for thousands of dollars, and those in mint condition can be worth tens of thousands—or more.”

From Hidden Treasure to High-Value Collectible

News of Whitmore’s discovery spread rapidly after she shared a photo of the Lincoln penny on a coin collectors’ forum. Members were stunned by the coin’s exceptional condition, with sharp details and minimal wear—likely because it had been hidden safely behind the clock for over a century.

Experts quickly authenticated the coin, with the Professional Coin Grading Service (PCGS) confirming it as a genuine 1909-S VDB Lincoln penny and assigning it an impressive MS-65 Red grade—a near-mint, gem-like condition. Holloway notes, “It’s likely one of the best-preserved examples to come to light in recent years. The story of how it was found only adds to its appeal. It’s truly every collector’s dream.”

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Excitement and Offers Flood In

Since Whitmore’s discovery, interest in this rare Lincoln penny has skyrocketed. Major collectors and auction houses are already reaching out, with initial offers reportedly soaring to $85,000 or more. Whitmore, however, remains undecided about what to do next. “It’s just incredible that something so small can be so valuable,” she says. “For now, I’m just soaking it all in—and making sure there aren’t any other hidden coins in the house!”

The Power of Everyday History

This remarkable Lincoln penny find is a powerful reminder that history often hides in the most unexpected places. While it may have been forgotten behind an old clock, it’s now capturing the imagination of collectors and historians alike. It’s a testament to the enduring fascination with small change and the thrill of discovering something extraordinary.

FAQ – Lincoln Penny Found Behind a Wall Clock

1. Why is the 1909-S VDB Lincoln penny so special?
The 1909-S VDB Lincoln penny was the first year of the iconic Lincoln cent. Its designer’s initials—VDB for Victor David Brenner—appear boldly on the reverse. With only 484,000 minted and many quickly removed from circulation, this Lincoln penny has become a legendary collector’s item.

2. How did this Lincoln penny end up behind a clock?
It was found during a kitchen renovation when an old wall clock was taken down. Decades ago, the Lincoln penny must have slipped behind the clock and remained there, untouched, ever since.

3. What is the Lincoln penny worth?
Given its rarity and near-mint condition, experts estimate this particular Lincoln penny to be worth over $85,000. Such finds highlight how even a humble penny can carry immense historical and monetary value.

Conclusion: A Lucky Discovery for Coin Collectors

The discovery of this 1909-S VDB Lincoln penny hidden behind an antique clock is a thrilling moment for numismatics. It underscores the enduring allure of America’s small change and the idea that true treasure can be found in the most ordinary places. Whether you’re a seasoned coin collector or someone just intrigued by history, this Lincoln penny’s story is one for the ages—proof that sometimes, a single coin can change everything.