Why Double Die Pennies Are So Valuable
Every penny has letters and numbers, but here’s a secret collectors know well:
sometimes those tiny details get doubled during the minting process — and that’s when things get very interesting.
These “double die errors” can turn an ordinary penny into a life-changing payday.
So let’s dive into the Top 5 Most Valuable Double Die Pennies you should be looking for in your change right now!
#5 – 1972 Double Die Lincoln Cent
Look at how clearly doubled this one is!
You can see the doubling on:
“IN GOD WE TRUST”
“LIBERTY”
Average Value: around $700+ depending on condition
These coins are fairly common among error hunters — so check all your 1972 pennies closely!
#4 – 1984 Double Die “Ear” Penny
This one’s wild — the doubling appears in Lincoln’s ear!
If it looks like he has two earlobes, you’ve found one.
Average Value: $200–$250 and they’re easier to find than most other double dies.
#3 – 1955 Double Die Obverse Penny
This is one of the most famous double die errors ever made.
If you can’t see the doubling on this one, well… you might need to clean your glasses!
Look for doubling on:
LIBERTY
IN GOD WE TRUST
High-Grade Value: up to $5,000 or more!
This coin is a collector favorite — and an iconic U.S. Mint mistake.
#2 – 1969-S Double Die Penny
Now we’re talking serious money.
This rare error shows slight doubling in the date, but you’ll see it most clearly in:
LIBERTY
IN GOD WE TRUST
Estimated Value: $50,000–$60,000 depending on condition and certification.
Finding one of these in circulation would be an unreal discovery.
#1 – The Legendary 1958 Double Die Penny
This is the holy grail of double die errors.
You’ll spot heavy doubling in LIBERTY and IN GOD WE TRUST, and if the coin is in pristine condition… you’re in for a shock.
Auction Record: Over $1,000,000!
Only a few are known to exist, making this one of the most valuable Lincoln cents of all time.