Lincoln Penny Found Behind: In a small New England town, a routine home renovation has turned into a numismatic sensation. A dusty Lincoln penny, discovered behind an antique wall clock during a kitchen remodel, is now causing a stir among coin collectors and historians alike.
The coin, which had apparently fallen behind the clock decades ago, was found by homeowner Sarah Whitmore while her contractor was removing old cabinetry. “We were just trying to update the kitchen,” Whitmore recalls. “The clock hadn’t been moved in years. When it came off the wall, a small copper coin clinked onto the floor.”
At first glance, it looked like any ordinary penny. But upon closer inspection, Whitmore noticed something unusual: the date stamped on the coin read 1909-S VDB—a holy grail among penny collectors.
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Why It Matters
The 1909-S VDB penny is one of the most coveted coins in American numismatics. Minted in San Francisco, it was the first year the Lincoln cent was introduced, and it featured the initials of its designer, Victor David Brenner, on the reverse. Only 484,000 of these coins were ever struck before the design was quickly changed due to public backlash over the prominent initials.
“It’s one of the rarest and most desirable Lincoln cents,” says Greg Holloway, a coin expert with the American Numismatic Association. “Even in circulated condition, a genuine 1909-S VDB can fetch thousands of dollars. In near-mint condition, it can be worth tens of thousands or more.”
A Collector’s Dream
Word of the find spread quickly after Whitmore posted a photo of the penny on a coin enthusiast forum. The coin appears to be in surprisingly good condition, with sharp details and minimal wear—suggesting it may have been newly minted when it slipped behind the clock over a century ago.
“We’re looking at possibly one of the best-preserved examples to surface in recent years,” Holloway says. “The backstory only adds to the allure. It’s every collector’s dream.”
Whitmore has since had the coin authenticated and graded by the Professional Coin Grading Service (PCGS), which confirmed it as a genuine 1909-S VDB penny and assigned it a grade of MS-65 Red, a near-gem mint state.
What Happens Next?
As news spreads, interest in the coin has exploded. Several high-profile collectors and auction houses have already expressed interest, with preliminary offers reportedly reaching upwards of $85,000.
Despite the excitement, Whitmore hasn’t decided what to do with the coin. “It’s hard to believe something so small could be worth so much,” she says. “For now, I’m just enjoying the moment—and making sure the rest of the house gets checked for any more hidden treasures.”
A Reminder of Hidden History
The discovery is a vivid reminder that history can be hiding in the most unexpected places—even behind an old clock on the wall. For coin collectors, it’s a thrilling testament to the enduring fascination with America’s small change. For everyone else, it’s a charming story of luck, timing, and a penny that may now be worth a fortune.
FAQ – Lincoln Penny Found Behind Wall Clock
1. Why is this penny special?
It’s a rare 1909-S VDB Lincoln cent — the first year of issue, with only 484,000 made and quickly pulled from circulation.
2. How was it found?
The penny was discovered during a home renovation, hidden behind an old wall clock.
3. What is it worth?
Experts estimate its value at over $85,000, due to its rarity and near-mint condition.