1909 Proof Set

The 1909 Proof Set is an important one in the realm of the humble Cent, as it marks the transition from Longacre's Indian Head design to the new Lincoln Head design of Victor D. Brenner. As nearly all numismatists know, the original design of the Lincoln Cent had Brenner's initials "VDB" at the bottom of the reverse, and their relative prominence became a subject of some controversy. Their removal later that year resulted in two varieties for 1909, both with and without the initials. The "with initials" variety is scarce, and despite a stated mintage of nearly 1,200 pieces, fewer than 15% of these matte Proof issues are known today. The remaining coins in the set are all struck in the traditional "brilliant" finish, and are of no particular rarity.

Notes: This set has bonuses. Please see the Set Composition for a listing.