Did you know there’s a 1959-D Wheat Penny that could be worth over $100,000? This mysterious coin is often called the “forbidden penny” because the U.S. Mint officially denied its existence for decades. Only a handful of collectors and grading services have ever confirmed its appearance.
If you think you’ve found one, here’s the complete guide to identifying, authenticating, and selling this numismatic outlaw 
Part 1: How to Spot a Genuine 1959-D Wheat Penny
The $100K Identification Checklist
1. Date Verification (Most Important Step)
- Must show “1959” clearly (not altered from 1958).
- Under 10x magnification:
- No tool marks around the numbers.
- Crisp, original mint luster with no uneven surfaces.
2. Reverse Design (Wheat Ears)
- Features the 1958 Wheat reverse instead of the 1959 Memorial reverse.
- Two sharp, well-defined wheat stalks
. - “ONE CENT” must match the 1958 font style.
3. Mint Mark Inspection
- Only the “D” mint mark is possible.
- Must match 1959 style and position.
“S” mint mark = fake (San Francisco didn’t mint these).
4. Weight & Composition Test
- 3.11 grams (copper).
- Will not stick to a magnet
. - 2.5g zinc coins = fake.
5. Edge Examination
- Smooth and consistent thickness.
- Rough edges, seams, or casting marks = counterfeit.
Red Flags of Fakes: mismatched patina, soft/mushy details, visible glue, or solder marks.
Part 2: How to Verify Authenticity
Step 1: Document Everything
- Take high-resolution photos in natural light.
- Record video under magnification.
- Weigh on a precision scale
.
Step 2: Submit to Top Grading Services
- PCGS – Best option (Errors & Varieties service).
- NGC – VarietyPlus attribution.
- ANACS – For forensic documentation and legal support.
Step 3: Get Expert Opinions
- Contact error coin specialists like Fred Weinberg or Mike Byers.
- Post photos on the PCGS forum (never reveal your location).
Part 3: Where to Sell for Maximum Value
Auction Houses (Best for Top Dollar)
- Heritage Auctions – Famous for rare error sales.
- Stack’s Bowers Galleries – Strong international buyer base.
Private Sales (Faster & Discreet)
- Dealers: David Lawrence RC, Legend Numismatics.
- Collector networks: PCGS Collectors Universe.
- Secure Facebook groups: Rare Coin Trading Network.
Museums (For Legacy Collectors)
- Smithsonian Institution
- ANA Money Museum
Part 4: Legal & Financial Protection
Before you sell:
- Create a provenance letter (notarized).
- Ship with Brinks or armored courier.
- Consult a numismatic attorney in case of Mint disputes.
Taxes to Remember:
- Capital gains tax: 20%+ (if held over 1 year).
- IRS Form 1099-B for sales above $20,000.
Why This Coin Is So Special
The only U.S. coin ever “banned” by the government.
If real, it rewrites American numismatic history.
Verified examples could bring $100,000+ at sale.
Warning: Less than 1% of claimed finds are real. Most are altered 1958-D coins, counterfeits, or misidentified pieces.
