Discover How This Ultra-Rare Error, With Only THREE Known, Commands Record-Shattering Prices!
At PennyVerse.info, we often highlight the incredible potential for value in your pocket change. But some coins transcend mere collecting; they become numismatic legends. The 1958 Doubled Die Obverse Lincoln Cent is one such legend. With a confirmed population of only three known examples, this error penny represents the pinnacle of rarity and desirability in modern U.S. coinage. Your image showcases its staggering auction record, proving that a single mistake from the Mint can be worth an absolute fortune.
Key Varieties & Values (Standard vs. Ultra-Rare)
The standard 1958 Lincoln Cent was minted in significant quantities, making it common. However, the discovery of a handful of true doubled die examples elevated this year into numismatic lore.
| Year / Coin Type | Mintage | Circulated Value | Uncirculated Value |
|---|---|---|---|
| 1958 Lincoln Cent (P) | 800,430,000 | Face value | $0.05 – $0.50 |
| 1958 Doubled Die Obverse Lincoln Cent | ONLY THREE KNOWN! | N/A (Error) | $336,000.00+ |
Recent Auction Record: The King of Errors!
Your image vividly displays the phenomenal value of this coin:
(Embed the provided image here, as it’s the perfect visual guide for this specific error)
The image above shows a 1958 Doubled Die Obverse Lincoln Cent (MS64RD) that sold for an astonishing $336,000.00, setting an auction record.
This single sale, which occurred in March 2018 at a Stack’s Bowers auction, solidifies the 1958 Doubled Die Obverse as one of the most valuable U.S. error coins ever discovered. Its extreme scarcity, with only three examples authenticated by PCGS (as indicated by the “PCGS Pop: 2” and “PCGS Pop Higher: 1” for its grade in the image, implying only three at or above that grade, with one higher), makes every appearance a major event in the numismatic world.
Identifying the $336,000.00 1958 Doubled Die Obverse
Identifying this specific error is paramount, as its value is immense, and knowledge of its diagnostics is critical.
What to Look For (Crucial Details):
- Check the Date: Ensure the coin is dated 1958. This error is specifically tied to this year.
- Dramatic Doubling on Obverse: Use a powerful magnifying glass (10x-20x magnification, or a USB microscope is ideal). Look for clear, unmistakable, and prominent doubling of the design elements on the obverse (front) of the coin. Specifically, examine:
- The word “LIBERTY”: The doubling here is particularly strong and often shows clear separation.
- The motto “IN GOD WE TRUST”: You should also observe significant doubling in these words.
- The date “1958”: While less pronounced than “LIBERTY” and “IN GOD WE TRUST”, elements of the date may also exhibit doubling.
- True Doubled Die vs. Mechanical Doubling: This distinction is absolutely vital.
- True Doubled Die (Valuable): The doubling will appear as clear, separate, raised elements. It looks like a distinct, slightly offset second image of the letters and numbers, caused by a manufacturing error in the coin die itself.
- Mechanical Doubling (Common & Worthless): This appears as a flat, shelf-like, or smeared appearance around the letters and numbers. It’s caused by a slight shift of the coin or die during the striking process, not a die error. For the 1958 DDO, the doubling is undeniably a true doubled die.
- No Mint Mark: The 1958 Lincoln Cent was only minted in Philadelphia, so it will not have a mint mark.
Why it’s So Rare: This error occurred when the working die received multiple, slightly misaligned impressions from the master hub during its creation. The fact that only three specimens are known to exist suggests the error was caught almost immediately, or very few dies with this dramatic doubling were ever put into production.
Grading & Condition Guide
The extreme rarity of the 1958 Doubled Die Obverse means that even in circulated grades, it would be immensely valuable. However, the vast majority of its worth is unlocked when it is in high Mint State (MS) condition, showcasing its original luster and sharp details.
| Grade | Description | Value Impact (for 1958 DDO) |
|---|---|---|
| Circulated | Visible wear, details worn smooth. | Still incredibly valuable due to rarity. |
| AU-50 | About Uncirculated – Light wear on high points. | Commands a very substantial five-figure sum. |
| MS-63 | Mint State – Few distracting marks, good luster. | High six-figure value. |
| MS-64RD | Choice Uncirculated – Strong luster, minor contact marks, vibrant red color. | Auction record: $336,000.00 |
| MS-65+ | Gem Quality – Superb strike, full luster, minimal flaws. | Potentially even higher values. |
Where to Sell Your Potentially Legendary 1958 Doubled Die Penny
If, against all odds, you believe you have discovered the fourth known 1958 Doubled Die Obverse, here are the absolutely critical next steps:
- Professional Coin Grading Services (PCGS & NGC): This is the immediate and only first step. Do NOT clean the coin under any circumstances. Immediately send it to PCGS (www.PCGS.com) or NGC (www.NGCcoin.com) for expert authentication and grading. Their verification is the absolute bedrock of its value and authenticity.
- Premier Numismatic Auction Houses: Once professionally certified and authenticated, contact top-tier auction houses like Heritage Auctions (www.HA.com) or Stack’s Bowers Galleries (www.StacksBowers.com). These are the only venues capable of handling and marketing a coin of this extreme rarity and value to the discerning collectors who can afford it.
CRITICAL WARNING: Due to its immense value and extreme rarity, this coin is a prime target for counterfeiting. Never attempt to buy or sell one without prior professional authentication from PCGS or NGC. Any uncertified 1958 doubled die should be treated with extreme skepticism.
Professional Authentication & Verification Tips
Precision and extreme caution are paramount when dealing with this specific error coin:
- Do NOT Clean the Coin: This cannot be overemphasized. Cleaning will cause irreparable damage and destroy its numismatic value.
- High Magnification: Use a 10x-20x loupe or a USB microscope to meticulously examine the doubling on “LIBERTY” and “IN GOD WE TRUST.”
- Cross-Reference: Compare your coin in forensic detail with high-resolution images of the authenticated 1958 Doubled Die Obverse examples available on PCGS CoinFacts and NGC VarietyPlus. Pay very close attention to the specific patterns of doubling.
- Immediate Professional Submission: If your coin’s doubling matches the known examples, do not delay. Submit it directly to PCGS or NGC for expert authentication and grading.
Market Trends (2024-2025 Update)
- Ultra-Rarities Reign Supreme: Coins with populations of only a handful of known examples, like the 1958 Doubled Die Obverse, continue to be the most coveted and valuable assets in the numismatic market.
- Authentication is Absolute: The entire market for high-value error coins operates exclusively on professional certification (PCGS or NGC). Uncertified examples are virtually unsalable for significant value.
- Strong Investment Interest: These iconic rarities are seen as long-term investments, attracting interest from high-net-worth collectors and investors globally.
- Record-Setting Potential: When a coin of this caliber surfaces, it’s an event. Future auction appearances could potentially break previous records, reflecting ongoing demand.
Join Our Error Coin Collectors Community!
🔍 At PennyVerse.info, we are dedicated to helping you uncover the fascinating world of minting errors:
- Free Weekly Error Coin Alerts: Stay informed about new discoveries and market trends in error coinage.
- Live Video Examination Sessions: Learn expert techniques for identifying various types of minting errors, including the subtle and the dramatic.
- Access to Our Error Coin Database: A comprehensive catalog of valuable U.S. errors.
- Members-Only Buying Opportunities: Exclusive access to quality error coins for your collection.
Found a 1958 penny you suspect might be the legendary doubled die? While incredibly unlikely, our experts provide free preliminary evaluations – submit your photos today for an initial assessment!
Would you like our free “Lincoln Cent Error & Variety Checklist”? Subscribe to our newsletter for instant access and enhance your coin hunting skills today!
