This 1909 S VDB LWC was passed down from my great uncle who passed it down to my mother who passed it down to me. So it's been in my household for almost 60 years and is part of an almost complete United States Cents collection. The only coins missing are the 1856 Flying Eagle and the 1864 L Indian Head Cent. I had never removed the 1909 from the album but since I recently purchased a DSLR camera setup I decided to take some photos and possibly submit it for grading. It never crossed my mind that it might be a fake so I'd like your opinion. The VDB on the reverse is a little difficult to see unless the lighting is just right which gives me pause. I appreciate your feedback.
The obverse looks good imo. The reverse I am not totally sure. I would take it to a coin show or a dealer to get some understanding. If it is genuine, get it certified ASAP.
Here is @justafarmer 's overlay/map. It appears to match the composite green s. Hard to get it perfect on my phone but appears to be a winner. Will see if farmer can confirm.
When I look at a counterfeit, Lincoln looks like one of those people who look like someone you know well. This one looks exactly like it should to me. As far as the weak VDB, I've seen worse. Getting it graded would make everything easier with the future life of the coin. If it ever gets sold, the grading will pay for itself. A slab will protect it so it can get passed down a few more generations. It looks at least fine, maybe VF IMHO. Nice coin!
Mint mark placement looks good for OBV-004. No need in verifying markers for OBV-001, OBV-002 or OBV-003. Concentrate only on those for OBV-004.
I really appreciate all the comments and analysis. I have a few coins that I plan on sending in for grading so I'll post the results once I get them back. Unfortunately we all know that it'll be some time before it's all said and done. Joe
