A jaw-dropping discovery has shaken the numismatic world—a 1954 Lincoln Wheat Cent featuring a rare “LIGERTY” error (missing the “B” in LIBERTY) has sold at auction for a record-setting $20 million, making it the most valuable penny ever sold.
Why This Coin Is Worth $20 Million
Key Attributes:
- “LIGERTY” error – caused by a dramatic die break, the “B” in LIBERTY is completely missing
- One-of-a-kind – only one confirmed authentic specimen
- Graded PCGS MS-66+ RD – nearly flawless red surface and elite condition
- Historic significance – minted during the Cold War era, adding to its mystique
Auction Highlights:
- A 12-minute bidding war among five billionaires
- Final sale price was three times the expected estimate
- Purchased by an anonymous high-profile collector from Asia
- Includes a $2 million buyer’s premium
How This Rare Error Happened
The Minting Breakdown:
- A severely cracked die failed during the striking process
- The “B” in LIBERTY was never imprinted, resulting in “LIGERTY”
- Somehow, the coin escaped detection and entered circulation
How to Identify a 1954 “LIGERTY” Error Penny
Check the Date: Must be 1954
Examine “LIBERTY”:
- Look for the missing “B” (reads “LIGERTY”)
- Letters may appear blurred or uneven
Confirm Authenticity:
- Must be PCGS-certified
- Watch out for fakes—laser-etched counterfeits are increasingly common
Grading & Value Estimates:
| Grade | Estimated Value |
|---|---|
| MS-66+ RD | $20,000,000 |
| MS-65 RD | $8,000,000 – $12,000,000 |
| MS-64 RB | $3,000,000 – $5,000,000 |
Where Another Might Be Hiding
Potential treasure troves include:
- Old safety deposit boxes
- Estates of former U.S. Mint employees
- European coin collections (Cold War exports)
What to Do If You Find One
Avoid touching the coin surface – use cotton gloves
Contact PCGS or NGC immediately – ask for their VIP error coin service
Insure the coin for $25 million+ before any transport or appraisal
“This isn’t just a coin—it’s a monument to minting imperfection.”
— David Hall, Founder of PCGS
