Imagine finding a penny in your change worth more than $1,000,000. Sounds impossible, right? Well, the incredible 1970-D “Horned Lincoln” penny has stunned collectors after selling for over a million dollars at auction.
This bizarre coin combines two rare minting errors in one, creating a one-of-a-kind treasure. Here’s why experts and collectors are calling it one of the wildest discoveries in modern U.S. coin history.
Why the Horned Lincoln Is Worth a Fortune
The 1970-D “Horned Lincoln” penny is valuable because it has two dramatic errors—a combination almost never seen on U.S. coins.
Double Error Rarity – “Struck-through grease” + “spiked head” die break
Shocking Visual – Lincoln looks like he has a horn on his forehead 
Denver Mint – Only 3 confirmed examples are known
Elite Grade – A PCGS-certified MS65 Red-Brown example sold for $1,050,000 
How to Spot the Horned Lincoln Penny
Think you might have one hiding in your collection? Here’s what to look for:
Obverse (Front):
- “LIBERTY” is faint or missing (caused by grease-filled die).
- A raised metal spike (the “horn”) appears on Lincoln’s head.
Reverse (Back):
- Normal wheat design.
- Weight: 3.11 grams (95% copper).
- Mint Mark: A bold “D” under the date.
Quick Test: Is Your Penny Worth $1 Million?
Look for the raised “horn” (not a scratch or damage).
Check LIBERTY – letters should be weak or missing.
Verify the “D” mint mark under the year 1970.
Value Breakdown: When Errors Multiply
Alone, each error has value—but together they skyrocket.
| Error Type | Standalone Value | Combined Value |
|---|---|---|
| Struck-Through | $5,000 | |
| Spiked Head | $25,000 | |
| Both Together | N/A | $1,000,000+ |
Condition Counts:
| Grade | Normal 1970-D | Double Error Value |
|---|---|---|
| AU-50 | $0.05 | $250,000+ |
| MS63 RB | $1 | $600,000+ |
| MS65 RB | $5 | $1,000,000+ |
The Minting Mishap
How did this wild penny happen?
- Grease clogged part of the die → caused faint lettering.
- A die crack formed on Lincoln’s head → creating the “horn.”
Timeline of Discoveries:
- 1987 – First example found in a Colorado bank roll.
- 2001 – Second example confirmed & certified.
- 2023 – One sells for over $1M at Heritage Auctions.
What To Do If You Think You Found One
DO:
- Handle carefully (only by the edges)
- Take high-resolution photos
- Submit to PCGS or NGC for certification
- Use insured shipping if sending it out
DON’T:
- Clean or polish the coin
- Add fake grease or damage the surface
- Alter the mint mark
Final Tip: Check Your Coin Jar!
The 1970-D Horned Lincoln penny proves that life-changing treasures can still be hiding in everyday change.
Imagine turning a penny into $1 million+ just by looking closely. Check your piggy bank, coin jars, or old rolls—you might be sitting on a fortune in copper. 
