Did you know that a simple penny from your change jar could be worth tens of thousands of dollars? 
The 1972 Lincoln Cent is one of the most sought-after error coins in U.S. history—some have even sold for $65,000 or more at auctions!
Let’s break down which 1972 pennies are valuable, how to spot them, and where you can sell them for top dollar.
Most Valuable 1972 Lincoln Cent Errors
1. 1972 Doubled Die Obverse (DDO – FS-101)
Clear doubling on “LIBERTY” and the date
Letters look like they were stamped twice
Officially listed as FS-101 by PCGS
Value Range: $5,000 – $65,000+ (depending on grade)
2. 1972 “No S” Proof Cent
Proof coins should have an “S” mintmark for San Francisco
The ultra-rare ones are missing the “S”
Fewer than 8 known examples exist
Auction Price: $65,000+ in pristine condition
3. Off-Center Strike Errors
Must be 50%+ off-center with full date visible
Collectors love dramatic error strikes
Value Range: $3,000 – $15,000+
How to Check If You Have a Rare 1972 Penny
Step 1: Look for Doubling
Use a 10x magnifier and check “LIBERTY” and the date. Strong examples show thick, shadowy letters with multiple edges.
Step 2: Confirm the Mintmark
- No mintmark = Philadelphia (normal for 1972)
- Proof coins should have an “S” mintmark (San Francisco)
- A proof coin with no “S” = extremely valuable
Step 3: Measure Weight & Size
- Normal weight: 3.11g copper or 2.5g zinc
- Diameter: 19mm
Warning: Many counterfeits exist—always get professional grading before selling!
Best Places to Sell Rare 1972 Pennies
Heritage Auctions → Best for certified, high-value coins
PCGS or NGC Grading → Can boost value by 30–50%
Error Coin Dealers → Some buy uncertified but rare errors
Want a Free Coin Evaluation?
Send clear, well-lit photos of your penny (both sides) to [CoinVerse.Pro] for a no-obligation review.
Final Thoughts
That penny in your pocket might not just be worth 1¢… it could be worth thousands of dollars . Always check your change—you never know when you’ll find a hidden treasure.
Pro Tip: Many rare coins are still circulating today. Keep your eyes open—your next lucky find could be in your wallet right now! 
