The 1958 Doubled Die Obverse (DDO) is considered the last great wheat penny error and one of the most valuable regular-issue U.S. coins ever discovered. With only three confirmed specimens, this dramatic mint mistake commands six-figure prices and represents the “final hurrah” of the beloved wheat cent series (1909–1958).
Record-Setting Auction Sales
- 2021 – $336,000 (PCGS MS64RB, Stack’s Bowers)
- 2018 – $258,500 (NGC MS63BN)
- 2004 – $126,500 (First public appearance)
This steady price growth reflects both the rarity and the iconic status of this error among collectors.
How to Identify the 1958 Doubled Die Obverse
Key Features:
- Date: Must read 1958 (Philadelphia issue only, no mintmark).
- Doubling Areas:
- “IN GOD WE TRUST” (most dramatic, visible even without magnification).
- “LIBERTY.”
- Date numerals.
- Weight: 3.11 grams (standard bronze wheat penny).
- Edge: Plain.
[Close-up comparison: Normal vs. Doubled Die Obverse]
Why It’s Worth Six Figures
Extreme Rarity
- Only 3 known specimens (2 in private collections, 1 museum-accessible).
- Represents the final major DDO of the wheat cent era.
Dramatic Visual Impact
- Doubling is bold, clean, and instantly recognizable.
- Strong secondary images visible to the naked eye.
Historical Importance
- Final year of the wheat reverse (replaced by the Memorial reverse in 1959).
- A transitional marker in U.S. cent history.
Value Guide for Authenticated Examples
| Grade | Color | Estimated Value |
|---|---|---|
| MS64 | Red-Brown | $300,000 – $350,000 |
| MS63 | Brown | $200,000 – $250,000 |
| AU55 | Brown | $75,000 – $100,000 |
Note: Only PCGS/NGC authenticated specimens carry this level of value.
Authentication Tips – Beware of Fakes
Because of its extreme rarity, the 1958 DDO is heavily counterfeited.
Common Red Flags:
- Artificial or mechanical doubling (flat and shelf-like).
- Tool marks around “IN GOD WE TRUST.”
- Inconsistent doubling patterns.
True DDO Traits:
- Strong, rounded doubling with natural die flow lines.
- Identical doubling across known specimens.
Verification Required:
- PCGS/NGC certification.
- Comparison against published CONECA references.
- Professional attribution by recognized error experts.
Quick Collector Checklist
- Penny dated 1958 (no mintmark)
- Strong doubling on IN GOD WE TRUST
- Doubling also visible on LIBERTY and date
- Weight: 3.11g
- No signs of tooling or alteration
- Verified by PCGS, NGC, or CONECA
