9 Rare Lincoln Cent Errors Worth Thousands: The Lincoln Cent, first minted in 1909 to honor Abraham Lincoln’s 100th birthday, is one of the most iconic coins in U.S. history. While most Lincoln Cents are worth just one cent, certain minting errors and rare varieties have turned ordinary pennies into numismatic goldmines. These errors—caused by misaligned dies, off-center strikes, or planchet flaws—add a layer of intrigue and rarity that captivates collectors. In this article, we’ll delve into the 9 most valuable Lincoln Cent errors, exploring their stories, unique characteristics, and jaw-dropping market values.
Table of Contents
- 1 1955 Doubled Die Obverse
- 2 1969-S Doubled Die Obverse
- 3 1983 Doubled Die Reverse
- 4 1943 Bronze Cent
- 5 1995 Doubled Die Obverse
- 6 1999 Wide “AM” Reverse
- 7 1984 Doubled Die Obverse
- 8 2004 “Speared Bison” Die Gouge
- 9 2014 Double Die Obverse
- 10 Why Are Lincoln Cent Errors So Valuable?
- 11 How to Spot Lincoln Cent Errors
- 12 Table – 9 Rare Lincoln Cent Errors
1955 Doubled Die Obverse
Error Type: Doubled Die Obverse
Description: The 1955 Doubled Die Obverse is the most famous Lincoln Cent error. A misalignment during the die creation process caused the obverse design (Lincoln’s portrait and text) to be struck twice, creating a dramatic doubling effect.
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Why It’s Valuable: Only 20,000-24,000 of these coins were released into circulation before the error was caught. Many were heavily circulated, but pristine examples are exceptionally rare.
Notable Sale: In 2022, a 1955 Doubled Die Cent graded MS-64 Red (mint state) sold for $1.2 million at auction.
1969-S Doubled Die Obverse
Error Type: Doubled Die Obverse
Description: The 1969-S Doubled Die features pronounced doubling on Lincoln’s portrait and the words “IN GOD WE TRUST.” This error is rarer than the 1955 version, with only a few dozen confirmed examples.
Why It’s Valuable: The coin’s scarcity and the FBI’s investigation into counterfeiting attempts in the 1970s (due to its rarity) have added to its mystique.
Notable Sale: A 1969-S Doubled Die Cent graded MS-63 Red sold for $126,500 in 2008.
1983 Doubled Die Reverse
Error Type: Doubled Die Reverse
Description: Unlike most doubled die errors, this mistake appears on the reverse (tails side) of the coin. The doubling is visible in the “ONE CENT” text and the Lincoln Memorial building.
Why It’s Valuable: Only a small number of these coins were produced before the error was corrected. High-grade examples are especially prized.
Notable Sale: A 1983 Doubled Die Reverse Cent graded MS-67 Red sold for $35,000 in 2021.
1943 Bronze Cent
Error Type: Wrong Planchet
Description: In 1943, the U.S. Mint switched to zinc-coated steel cents to save copper for World War II. However, a few bronze planchets (leftover from 1942) were accidentally struck, creating ultra-rare “copper” 1943 cents.
Why It’s Valuable: Only 10-15 examples are known to exist. Their survival defies the Mint’s wartime production records.
Notable Sale: A 1943 Bronze Cent graded MS-63 Red Brown sold for $1.7 million in 2010.
1995 Doubled Die Obverse
Error Type: Doubled Die Obverse
Description: This error shows doubling on Lincoln’s ear, eye, and the motto “IN GOD WE TRUST.” The doubling is subtle but distinct under magnification.
Why It’s Valuable: While more common than the 1955 or 1969-S errors, high-grade examples are scarce due to circulation wear.
Notable Sale: A 1995 Doubled Die Cent graded MS-68 Red sold for $30,000 in 2019.
1999 Wide “AM” Reverse
Error Type: Design Variation
Description: On most Lincoln Cents, the “AM” in “AMERICA” on the reverse is closely spaced. The 1999 Wide AM variety features a noticeable gap between the letters.
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Why It’s Valuable: This error only appears on 1999 cents struck for proof sets, making it rare in circulation.
Notable Sale: A 1999 Wide AM Cent graded MS-67 Red sold for $25,000 in 2020.
1984 Doubled Die Obverse
Error Type: Doubled Die Obverse
Description: The doubling on this coin is most visible in the date, Lincoln’s beard, and the word “LIBERTY.”
Why It’s Valuable: Though more common than earlier doubled die errors, uncirculated examples are highly sought after.
Notable Sale: A 1984 Doubled Die Cent graded MS-67 Red sold for $20,000 in 2018.
2004 “Speared Bison” Die Gouge
Error Type: Die Gouge
Description: A deep gouge in the reverse die created a line resembling a spear through the bison on the Nebraska state quarter design (part of the Lincoln Cent’s commemorative series).
Why It’s Valuable: This dramatic error is popular among collectors of modern coins.
Notable Sale: A 2004 “Speared Bison” Cent graded MS-66 Red sold for $5,000 in 2016.
2014 Double Die Obverse
Error Type: Doubled Die Obverse
Description: This modern error shows doubling on Lincoln’s profile and the date.
Why It’s Valuable: As a recent error, well-preserved examples are easier to find but still command high premiums.
Notable Sale: A 2014 Double Die Cent graded MS-67 Red sold for $4,000 in 2021.
Why Are Lincoln Cent Errors So Valuable?
- Rarity: Many errors were caught and destroyed by the Mint, making survivors scarce.
- Historical Context: Errors like the 1943 Bronze Cent are tied to pivotal moments in history (e.g., WWII).
- Condition: Coins graded “Red” (full original luster) or “Mint State” fetch the highest prices.
- Collector Demand: Error coins are a niche market with passionate buyers driving up values.
How to Spot Lincoln Cent Errors
- Use a Magnifier: Doubled dies and small die cracks require close inspection.
- Check Dates: Focus on key years like 1955, 1969-S, and 1999.
- Look for Oddities: Off-center strikes, missing layers, or unusual textures.
Table – 9 Rare Lincoln Cent Errors
| Coin | Mint | Value ($) | Unique Feature |
|---|---|---|---|
| 1955 Doubled Die Obverse | Philadelphia | 1,000 – 1.2M | Strong doubling on obverse text & portrait |
| 1969-S Doubled Die Obverse | San Francisco | 10,000 – 126,500 | Pronounced doubling on “IN GOD WE TRUST” |
| 1983 Doubled Die Reverse | Philadelphia | 200 – 35,000 | Doubling on “ONE CENT” & Lincoln Memorial |
| 1943 Bronze Cent | Various | 100,000 – 1.7M | Struck on leftover bronze planchets |
| 1995 Doubled Die Obverse | Philadelphia | 500 – 30,000 | Subtle doubling on Lincoln’s ear & motto |
| 1999 Wide “AM” Reverse | Philadelphia | 500 – 25,000 | Distinct gap between “A” & “M” in “AMERICA” |
| 1984 Doubled Die Obverse | Philadelphia | 100 – 20,000 | Doubling on date, beard, and “LIBERTY” |
| 2004 “Speared Bison” Die Gouge | Denver | 50 – 5,000 | Die gouge resembling a spear through bison |
| 2014 Doubled Die Obverse | Philadelphia | 200 – 4,000 | Doubling on Lincoln’s profile & date |
Lincoln Cent errors are more than just mistakes—they’re windows into the complexities of coin production and the thrill of discovery. From the legendary 1955 Doubled Die to the mysterious 1943 Bronze Cent, these coins blend history, artistry, and luck. Whether you’re a seasoned collector or a casual coin enthusiast, searching for these errors can turn a handful of pennies into a treasure hunt.
As the market for error coins grows, values are likely to rise, making them both fascinating collectibles and smart investments. So, the next time you empty your pockets, take a closer look—you might be holding a six-figure penny!
FAQs:
What’s the difference between a doubled die and a double strike?
A doubled die error occurs during die production, while a double strike happens when a coin is struck multiple times.
What is the rarest Lincoln Cent error?
The 1943 Bronze Cent, with only 10-15 known examples, is the rarest.
Can I find valuable errors in circulation?
Yes! Many high-value errors, like the 1999 Wide AM, have been found in pocket change.
How do I grade a Lincoln Cent error?
Professional grading services (e.g., PCGS, NGC) assess condition on a 1-70 scale, with higher numbers indicating better preservation.
Are modern errors worth collecting?
Absolutely. Errors like the 2014 Double Die are gaining traction as future rarities.
