You learn something new every day. Everybody knows about the 1909-S VDB but I had no idea that the proof was light years more valuable. This MS67+ RD CAC is being auctioned and is currently up to $168,850 with buyer's fee. Price guide says $380k, Yowzer. https://www.greatcollections.com/Coin/1745173/
I'm assuming this is one of the early matte proofs? I've seen them from different years and they are beautiful coins! This one seems to have kept a lot of redness. I think Lincoln cent matte proofs are often found toned due to packaging they were put in.
I don't know anything about these but from poking around I get the impression that all of the proofs 1909-1916 were matte proof. Yes, articles online indicate that the tissue paper they were packaged in had a high sulfur content which caused toning.
It’s a matter of a very low mintage and a hoarder who was able to corner a considerable number of the surviving population. This person had over 50 pieces. It’s a frustrating coin for those, like me, who would like to build a set 21st century Proof type coins.
