Some pennies are worth much more than their face value due to rare minting mistakes—and the 1955 Doubled Die Lincoln cent is one of the most famous of them all. This eye-catching error has fascinated collectors for decades, with its dramatic doubling of letters and numbers easily visible to the naked eye. If you’re lucky enough to find one, it could turn your spare change into a small fortune.
1955 Doubled Die Obverse Lincoln Cent
The 1955 Doubled Die penny was created when the coin die was misaligned during production at the Philadelphia Mint. As a result, the front side of the coin (called the “obverse”) shows clear doubling in the words “LIBERTY”, “IN GOD WE TRUST”, and the date “1955”. This doubling is bold and highly visible, unlike many other doubled dies where the error can be hard to detect. That’s why this coin became so iconic—it’s one of the few errors that almost anyone can spot without magnification.
How the 1955 Doubled Die Error Happened
This famous error occurred when the working die used to stamp the coin received a second, misaligned impression from the hub. This misalignment caused all design elements on the obverse to appear doubled. While only around 20,000–24,000 of these error coins made it into circulation, their unique appearance and limited number made them instant collector’s items. Many were released accidentally through cigarette vending machines and change rolls in the 1950s.
The 1955 Doubled Die penny is a must-know coin for anyone interested in U.S. coin collecting. With its dramatic and visible error, historical significance, and high collector demand, it remains one of the most valuable and desired Lincoln cents ever struck. If you ever come across an old penny dated 1955, take a close look—you might just be holding one of the most iconic error coins in American history.
Value of the 1955 Doubled Die Penny
Here’s a quick reference for the coin’s value based on condition:
| Condition | Approx. Value (INR) |
|---|---|
| Good (G-4) | ₹75,000 – ₹90,000 |
| Fine (F-12) | ₹1,20,000 – ₹1,60,000 |
| Extremely Fine (XF) | ₹2,00,000 – ₹2,80,000 |
| Uncirculated (MS-60) | ₹3,50,000 – ₹5,00,000 |
| Mint State (MS-65+) | ₹6,00,000 – ₹9,00,000+ |
FAQ’s:
How can I identify a 1955 Doubled Die penny?
Look for strong doubling in the words “LIBERTY,” “IN GOD WE TRUST,” and the numbers in the date. The doubling is easy to see without tools.
How many 1955 Doubled Die pennies exist?
Experts estimate that between 20,000 and 24,000 were originally released, but far fewer are believed to survive in good condition today.
Is the doubling on the reverse side too?
No, the error is only on the obverse (front) of the coin. The reverse is normal, which helps confirm the authenticity.
Are there fake 1955 Doubled Die pennies?
Yes, many counterfeits exist. It’s important to have your coin authenticated by a trusted grading service like PCGS or NGC.
Where can I sell a 1955 Doubled Die penny?
You can sell it to reputable coin dealers, at coin shows, or through online auction platforms after verifying its authenticity.