Did you know that an ordinary-looking 1958 Lincoln cent could actually be worth a staggering $535,000? This isn’t just pocket change—it’s life-changing money! Here’s everything you need to know about this rare 1958 doubled die penny, why it’s so valuable, and how you might find one yourself.
Why the 1958 Penny Is Worth Over Half a Million
The Famous Doubled Die Error
- What happened? The coin’s design was struck twice, creating a “doubling” effect.
- Where to look: The words “ONE CENT” and “UNITED STATES OF AMERICA” show clear doubling.
Extreme Rarity
- Only three confirmed examples exist in top condition.
- One sold for a jaw-dropping $535,000 at auction (PCGS MS-64 Red Brown grade).
High Collector Demand
- Error coin collectors pay huge premiums for rare varieties.
- It’s considered one of the most famous doubling errors in U.S. coin history.
How to Identify a 1958 Doubled Die Penny
Step 1: Look for Doubling
- Use a 10x magnifying loupe.
- Check “ONE CENT” and “UNITED STATES OF AMERICA” for shadowed or doubled letters.
Step 2: Verify the Date
- Must be 1958 with no mint mark (Philadelphia Mint).
Step 3: Check Condition
- Red Brown or Full Red coins are worth the most.
- Avoid cleaned or scratched coins—they lose up to 90% of their value.
Where to Sell Your Rare 1958 Penny
Top Auction Houses (Best for $100K+)
- Heritage Auctions – known for record-breaking coin sales.
- Stack’s Bowers – experts in rare and error coins.
Mid-Range Options ($10K–$100K)
- eBay – strong collector demand online.
- Coin shows – great for face-to-face negotiations with experts.
Pro Tip: Always get your coin graded by PCGS or NGC before selling—it’s required for maximum payout.
Don’t Spend It by Accident!
Go check your coin jar, piggy bank, or that old box of pennies hiding in the attic. Who knows—you could be sitting on a $535,000 treasure without even realizing it.
Free Rare Penny Checklist: PennyVerse.info/rare-pennies
Watch the Story: Search “The Million-Dollar Penny” on YouTube.