Watch the Video First!
Before you read the full breakdown, watch Coin Teacher’s latest video where he explains an email from a viewer who might have found a $66,000 penny!
[Watch the Full Video Here] (insert your YouTube link or embed code below)
The Email That Started It All
Coin Teacher received an intriguing message from a viewer named Lex, who wrote:
“I believe I found a 1969-S mint mark double-struck penny, and I need your help.”
That email kicked off this educational deep dive — because if Lex really found one, it could be worth tens of thousands of dollars! 
The Coin to Check: 1969-S Lincoln Cent
This lesson focuses on the 1969 Lincoln penny with the ‘S’ mint mark (for San Francisco).
Most 1969-S pennies are ordinary — but a tiny number show an extreme double-die obverse (meaning the front design was struck twice, slightly misaligned).
How to Tell the Difference
Normal 1969-S Penny (No Extra Value)
- LIBERTY: Letters appear sharp and single.
- IN GOD WE TRUST: Normal spacing, no shadow effect.
- Date & Mint Mark: Clear, no doubling.
These are regular circulation coins — still fun to keep, but only worth one cent.
Valuable 1969-S Double Die Obverse 
Here’s what the real treasure looks like:
- LIBERTY: Strong, obvious doubling on the R, E, and B.
- IN GOD WE TRUST: Noticeable doubling on nearly every letter.
- DATE (1969): May show light doubling, though the letters show it best.
- Mint Mark (S): Not doubled — it was added separately after striking.
Under magnification, the doubled letters look like a clear shadow or second outline.
What It’s Worth
| Grade | Description | Auction Value Range |
|---|---|---|
| MS (High Grade) | Brilliant uncirculated | $66,000+ (sold at auction) |
| AU (Lightly Circulated) | Minor wear | $30,000 – $40,000 |
| VF–XF | Moderate circulation | $20,000 – $25,000 |
“Even in lower grades, this coin can change someone’s life,” says Coin Teacher.
Expert Tips
Use a magnifier (10× to 30×) — the doubling is easy to spot once you know where to look.
Don’t clean it! Cleaning destroys collector value instantly.
Authenticate with PCGS or NGC before selling.
Store safely in a coin holder or airtight capsule.
