Why This Penny Could Be Worth a Fortune
The 1958 Doubled Die Obverse (DDO) Lincoln cent is one of the most dramatic and valuable doubling errors in US coinage. In pristine condition, these pennies have sold for over $300,000. Here’s everything you need to know to identify this rare coin in your collection.
Key Identification Features
1. Obverse (Front) Doubling
- Clear doubling visible on:
- “IN GOD WE TRUST” (especially the “G” and “D”)
- “LIBERTY”
- Date (“1958” shows secondary ghost numbers)
- Lincoln’s profile (check cheekbone area)
2. Reverse (Back) Characteristics
- Normal wheat ears design (no doubling)
- Should weigh 3.11g (copper composition)
Grading & Value Chart
| Grade | Description | Value Range |
|---|---|---|
| MS-65 RB (Red-Brown) | Light toning, full details | 15,000−15,000−25,000 |
| MS-67 RD (Full Red) | Vibrant color, no flaws | 100,000−100,000−336,000 |
| AU-55 | Slight wear on high points | 5,000−5,000−10,000 |
| XF-40 | Visible wear but strong details | 2,000−2,000−4,000 |
Record Sale: $336,000 for a PCGS MS-67 RD specimen (2018)
Step-by-Step Authentication Guide
1. Magnification Check (10x+)
- Genuine DDO: Shows mechanical doubling (parallel raised lines)
- Fake/Mechanical Doubling: Blurry or “shelf-like” appearance
2. Weight & Composition Test
- Must weigh 3.11g (pre-1982 copper composition)
- Non-magnetic (zinc pennies after 1982 weigh 2.5g)
3. Die Marker Verification
- Look for specific die cracks near Lincoln’s shoulder
- Known examples show a small die break at “9” in the date
Where to Sell for Maximum Profit
- Auction Houses:
- Heritage Auctions (for coins valued over $10,000)
- Stack’s Bowers (specializes in rare errors)
- Private Collectors:
- PCGS Collectors Club forums
- Rare coin Facebook groups
- Certification First:
- PCGS/NGC grading adds 50-300% value
- Cost: 35−35−150 depending on service level
3 Critical Warning Signs of Fakes
❌ Wrong Weight (anything not 3.11g is suspect)
❌ No Die Markers (missing known cracks/breaks)
❌ “Too Perfect” Doubling (real DDO shows slight misalignment)
