Lincoln Wheat Penny : A rare 1955 Lincoln Wheat Penny, discovered tucked away in a coat pocket, recently sold for a staggering $775,000 at auction, proving that valuable treasures might be hiding in your loose change. This penny, known for a dramatic minting error, has sparked excitement among collectors and everyday folks alike. The Lincoln Wheat Penny, minted from 1909 to 1958, is a familiar coin, but certain errors from 1955 make it a collector’s dream. Here’s what makes this penny so special and how you can spot one in your pocket.
The Famous 1955 Doubled Die Error
The 1955 Lincoln Wheat Penny fetching $775,000 is prized for its “doubled die” error, where the coin’s design appears doubled, especially in the date and lettering. This happened when the U.S. Mint’s die was misaligned during production, creating a blurry, doubled effect on “LIBERTY,” “IN GOD WE TRUST,” and “1955.” Only a small number of these pennies were made before the error was caught, making them incredibly rare. Their bold, visible mistake and historical value drive their high price, especially for coins in excellent condition.
How to Spot the $775,000 Penny
Finding this rare penny requires a close look. Here are some tips to check your coins:
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The front (obverse) shows Abraham Lincoln’s portrait, but check the date “1955” for clear doubling, where the numbers look blurry or overlapped.
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Look at “LIBERTY” and “IN GOD WE TRUST” for a doubled, shadow-like effect.
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The back (reverse) has two wheat stalks and “ONE CENT,” but the error is mainly on the front.
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The coin is made of 95% copper, weighs 3.11 grams, and has a plain edge.
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Coins in mint or uncirculated condition (graded MS63 or higher by PCGS or NGC) are worth the most.
Grab a magnifying glass to inspect details, and don’t clean the coin, as it could lower its value.
|
Feature |
Details |
|---|---|
|
Coin Type |
Lincoln Wheat Penny (1955) |
|
Error Type |
Doubled Die Obverse |
|
Composition |
95% Copper, 5% Tin and Zinc |
|
Weight |
3.11 grams |
|
Diameter |
19 mm |
|
Edge |
Plain |
|
Estimated Value |
Up to $775,000 (mint condition) |
Why This Penny Is a Collector’s Gem
The 1955 doubled die penny’s value comes from its rarity and striking appearance. Experts estimate only about 20,000-24,000 were released, a tiny fraction of the millions minted that year. Its bold doubling is one of the most dramatic errors in U.S. coin history, making it a must-have for collectors. In 2024, a similar penny in top condition sold for $775,000 at a Heritage Auctions sale, and prices could climb higher for pristine examples. The coin’s copper shine and historical significance as a mid-20th-century relic add to its appeal.
Other Lincoln Wheat Penny Errors to Hunt
The 1955 doubled die isn’t the only Lincoln Wheat Penny worth big money. Other errors include:
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1943 Bronze Penny: Struck on a bronze planchet by mistake, worth up to $2 million.
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1944 Steel Penny: Made on a steel planchet, valued at $75,000-$100,000.
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1922 No-D Penny: Missing the Denver mint mark, can fetch $10,000-$20,000.
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1955 Poor Man’s Doubled Die: A less dramatic doubling, still worth $1,000-$2,000.
These errors make Wheat Pennies from the 1940s and 1950s prime targets, so check any old pennies you find.
How to Cash In on Your Find
If you think you’ve found a 1955 doubled die penny, handle it carefully to avoid scratches or wear. Take it to a trusted coin dealer or grading service like the Professional Coin Grading Service (PCGS) or Numismatic Guaranty Corporation (NGC) for authentication. Grading confirms the error and assesses the coin’s condition, which determines its value. Auction houses like Heritage Auctions or Stack’s Bowers are ideal for selling high-value coins, with past doubled die pennies fetching six figures. Online platforms like eBay list smaller errors, but for a $775,000 coin, professional grading is key.
The 1955 Lincoln Wheat Penny with a doubled die error is a hidden fortune waiting to be found. With a value of up to $775,000, it’s worth checking your pennies for that telltale blurry date or lettering. If you spot something unusual, get it appraised by an expert. This rare coin shows that everyday change can hold life-changing value, so start searching your pockets, coin jars, and old coats today!