One 2001 Lincoln penny with a strange “200LS” date error shocked the coin world — selling for a jaw-dropping $114,000 in a private auction! 
Let’s break down exactly what makes this coin so valuable and how you can check if you’ve got one hiding in your pocket change.
What Makes the 2001 “200LS” Penny So Special?
This isn’t your ordinary penny. Here’s why collectors are paying top dollar for this rare error:
The Error: The date shows “200LS” instead of “2001.”
Cause: Believed to be from a misaligned or damaged die, which caused part of the “1” to look like an “L” and the “S.”
Rarity: Only 3–5 examples are known to exist in the entire world!
Recent Sale: One of these ultra-rare pennies sold for $114,000 at a private auction.
If you spot this error, you could be holding a small copper fortune in your hand!
Step-by-Step: How to Spot the “200LS” Error
Step 1: Check the Date
- Look closely at the front (obverse) side of the penny.
- Instead of “2001,” the digits may appear as “200LS.”
- Most known examples are Philadelphia-minted (no mint mark).
Step 2: Examine the Obverse Design
- Pay attention to LIBERTY — some letters may look slightly distorted.
- Compare your coin to a normal 2001 penny to spot the differences.
Step 3: Verify Authenticity
- Send your coin to PCGS or NGC for professional grading.
Beware of fake altered coins — scammers sometimes modify digits to mimic this error.- Only certified coins will fetch high prices.
Other Rare & Valuable 2001 Penny Errors
| Error Type | Estimated Value Range |
|---|---|
| Doubled Die Obverse | $500 – $5,000 |
| Off-Center Strike |  $50 – $1,000 |
| Missing Mint Mark | $200 – $2,000 |
Tip: Even common errors from 2001 can bring in hundreds — always double-check before spending your change!
What To Do If You Find a “200LS” Error Penny
Don’t Clean It! 
Cleaning coins can scratch the surface and destroy collector value.
Store Properly: Use a protective coin flip or holder to keep it safe.
Get It Graded: Send it to PCGS or NGC for authentication — this adds credibility and boosts the market price.
Sell Smart:
For high-value coins, try Heritage Auctions or GreatCollections.
For a quicker private sale, contact trusted collectors or dealers.
Final Thoughts
The 2001 “200LS” Lincoln penny is one of the most mysterious modern mint errors ever discovered. With so few known examples, even finding one could mean a life-changing payday.
So next time you’re checking your spare change or coin jar — grab a magnifying glass 
and inspect those dates carefully. You might just uncover a $114,000 treasure sitting right under your nose!
