Misprinted Penny Found At Flea Market Sells For $120,000
A rare Lincoln Wheat Penny has recently garnered significant attention in the numismatic community by fetching a staggering $120,000 at auction.
This exceptional coin, discovered at a flea market, underscores the potential value hidden in everyday pocket change.
The Discovery of the Rare Penny
In early 2025, a coin collector browsing through items at a local flea market stumbled upon a Lincoln Wheat Penny that appeared to have a minting anomaly.
Upon closer inspection, the coin exhibited characteristics of a 1955 Doubled Die Obverse, one of the most coveted error coins among collectors.
Understanding the 1955 Doubled Die Obverse
The 1955 Doubled Die Obverse penny is renowned for its distinctive doubling of the inscriptions “LIBERTY” and “IN GOD WE TRUST,” as well as the date.
This error occurred due to a misalignment during the minting process, resulting in a doubled image on the coin’s obverse.
Approximately 20,000 to 24,000 of these error coins were released into circulation before the mistake was detected.
Auction and Valuation
After authentication and grading, the discovered penny was put up for auction. Given its rarity and the coin’s excellent condition, it attracted significant interest from collectors worldwide.
The bidding culminated in a final sale price of $120,000, reflecting the coin’s historical significance and desirability.
Key Details of the 1955 Doubled Die Obverse Penny
| Feature | Description |
|---|---|
| Coin Type | Lincoln Wheat Penny |
| Year | 1955 |
| Minting Error | Doubled Die Obverse |
| Distinctive Features | Doubling of “LIBERTY,” “IN GOD WE TRUST,” and the date |
| Estimated Quantity | Approximately 20,000 to 24,000 released into circulation |
| Recent Sale Price | $120,000 |
Identifying a 1955 Doubled Die Obverse Penny
To determine if you possess one of these rare coins, examine the following features:
- Doubling: Check for clear doubling of the inscriptions “LIBERTY,” “IN GOD WE TRUST,” and the date on the obverse side.
- Condition: Coins in better condition (minimal wear and clear details) are more valuable.
- Authentication: Consult a professional coin grading service to authenticate and grade the coin accurately.
Other Notable Lincoln Wheat Penny Errors
| Year | Error Type | Description | Estimated Value |
|---|---|---|---|
| 1909 | S VDB | First year of issue with designer’s initials; low mintage | Up to $100,000 |
| 1914 | D | Low mintage from Denver Mint | Up to $75,000 |
| 1922 | No D | Missing mint mark due to die wear | Up to $50,000 |
| 1943 | Copper Composition | Struck on copper planchets instead of steel | Over $100,000 |
| 1955 | Doubled Die Obverse | Prominent doubling of obverse inscriptions | Up to $125,000 |
The remarkable sale of the 1955 Doubled Die Obverse penny for $120,000 serves as a compelling reminder of the hidden treasures that may reside in everyday coin collections.
Collectors and enthusiasts are encouraged to examine their coins closely, as even a seemingly ordinary penny could hold significant value due to minting errors or historical significance.
FAQs
How can I verify if my 1955 penny is a Doubled Die Obverse?
Examine the obverse side for clear doubling of “LIBERTY,” “IN GOD WE TRUST,” and the date. For confirmation, consult a professional coin grading service.
Are all 1955 pennies with doubling valuable?
Only genuine 1955 Doubled Die Obverse pennies have significant value. Other forms of doubling may result from different minting issues and are generally less valuable.
Where can I sell a rare penny?
Rare coins can be sold through reputable coin dealers, auctions, or online platforms specializing in numismatics. Ensure the coin is authenticated and graded before selling to maximize its value.