
It sounds unbelievable, but some ordinary-looking 1968-S Lincoln pennies have sold for over $200,000… and many collectors believe more are still hiding in jars, drawers, and old coffee cans! 😱🪙
The coin shown in the image highlights the exact spots where extremely rare doubling may appear — and that doubling is what can turn a simple penny into a life-changing treasure.
Ready to see if yours could be worth a fortune? Let’s break it down step by step.👇
🧠 1. A Quick & Fun History Lesson
The Lincoln cent began in 1909 to honor Abraham Lincoln’s 100th birthday.
In 1959, the reverse design changed to the Lincoln Memorial, and pennies from this era include several valuable errors. 🎉
The 1968-S (San Francisco Mint) issues are extra interesting because a very small number were struck with doubled die obverse errors — making them incredibly rare and extremely valuable. 🚀
Finding one is like uncovering treasure in your own pocket! 💰
✨ 2. Step-by-Step Guide: How to Spot the Special 1968-S Error
The photo you provided shows circled areas where the doubling appears. Use these steps to compare your coin:
🔎 Step A — Check the Date & Mintmark
✔ Must read: 1968
✔ Must include “S” under the date (San Francisco Mint)
If it doesn’t have the “S,” it cannot be the rare $200K type.
🎨 Step B — Look for Doubling on Key Areas
Look closely at the circled regions in the picture:
- Lincoln’s nose, beard, or chin
- The letters in IN GOD WE TRUST
- The word LIBERTY
If the details appear doubled, with faint extra lines or shadows, that’s a strong sign you may have a doubled die.
👀 Step C — Use a Magnifier
Use a 10x magnifier or a phone macro-lens to check:
✔ Natural raised doubling
❌ Not scratches or added marks
The doubling should match the flow of the metal exactly, just like in the photo.
⚠️ Step D — Watch Out for Fake Marks
Some people artificially add lines to mimic doubling.
Real doubling is:
- Smooth
- Even
- Part of the original strike
- Not carved or etched
Always compare to your reference image!
💸 3. How to Sell a $200,000 Penny (Yes, Really!)
If you believe your coin shows authentic doubling, here’s how to turn it into cash:
📸 Option 1 — Sell It Yourself
List on:
- eBay
- GreatCollections
- Heritage Auctions (they allow pre-screen photos)
Take clear macro photos of:
✔ Date
✔ Mintmark “S”
✔ Doubling areas
✔ Both sides of the coin
Mention:
👉 “Possible 1968-S Doubled Die Obverse”
🏛️ Option 2 — Major Auction Houses (Best for $50K+)
Send your coin to:
- Stack’s Bowers
- Heritage Auctions
They specialize in six-figure coins and offer marketing, grading handling, and high-profile bidders.
💰 About the Price
As of June 29, 2025 — 02:37 AM (GMT+7)
👉 Verified 1968-S doubled die cents have reached $200,000+ in auction!
Setting a reserve price is smart for rare pieces.
🛡️ 4. How to Make Sure Your Coin Is Authentic
Before selling, you MUST get it certified.
✔ PCGS (Professional Coin Grading Service)
✔ NGC (Numismatic Guaranty Company)
What to send them:
📷 High-quality photos OR
🪙 The physical coin
What they’ll do:
- Confirm authenticity
- Grade the coin
- Provide a certification number
- Seal it in a tamper-proof holder
A certified 1968-S doubled die can skyrocket in value.
🌍 5. Learn More & Keep Treasure-Hunting!
If you love discovering rare coins, visit:
👉 PennyVerse.info
There you’ll find:
📚 Coin guides
🧭 Error identification charts
💎 Real price history
🔍 Collector tools
Who knows? The next treasure could be sitting in your change bowl right now! 🪙✨
🏁 Final Thoughts
A 1968-S doubled die penny is one of the most exciting modern Lincoln cent treasures.
If yours has the right doubling…
👉 You could be holding a $200,000 jackpot in your fingers. 💥🏆
Have questions or want help checking your coin?
Drop a comment below — let’s talk! 💬
