Breaking News – June 2025: A seemingly ordinary 1983 Lincoln Memorial penny has shocked the numismatic world by selling for an astonishing $500,000 at a New York auction. This incredible sale proves that even modern coins can hide life-changing value.
Why This 1983 Penny is Worth Half a Million
Ultra-Rare Variety – Only 2–3 verified specimens exist.
Shocking Mint Error – Dramatic doubled die obverse visible without magnification.
Perfect Preservation – Graded MS-68 Red by PCGS.
Modern Rarity – From the very first year of copper-plated zinc composition.
How to Identify the $500K 1983 Penny
Check the Date – Must be 1983, with no mintmark (Philadelphia issue).
Look for Doubling –
- “LIBERTY” and the date will show clear separation.
- “ONE CENT” on the reverse appears thicker than normal.
Confirm the Composition – - Weight: 2.5g (correct for zinc).
- Edge: Solid zinc (no exposed copper layer).
1983 Doubled Die Penny Value Chart
| Grade | Value Range |
|---|---|
| MS-68 RD | $400,000 – $600,000 |
| MS-67 RD | $100,000 – $250,000 |
| MS-66 RD | $25,000 – $75,000 |
| AU-58 | $5,000 – $15,000 |
Where You Might Find One
- Old coin jars from the 1980s
- Inherited coin collections
- Unsearched bank rolls from decades ago
- Estate sales near Philadelphia
What To Do If You Find a 1983 Doubled Die Penny
Do NOT clean it – Cleaning destroys collectible value.
Take clear, close-up photos of both sides.
Submit to PCGS or NGC for authentication.
Auction for maximum profit – Use a 6-month marketing campaign with targeted collector outreach.
