The Lincoln Wheat Penny is a nostalgic piece of American history found in many old collections, coin jars, and even the occasional pocket change. But did you know that some of these humble copper coins could be worth thousands—or even tens of thousands—because of a rare minting error? One specific type of error has collectors scrambling to find these hidden treasures, and you might already have one.
1955 Double Die Lincoln Wheat Penny
The most famous and valuable error among Lincoln Wheat Pennies is the 1955 Double Die Obverse. This coin features a dramatic doubling of the inscriptions on the front (obverse) of the penny, especially noticeable in the words “LIBERTY” and “IN GOD WE TRUST”, as well as the date “1955”. This bold doubling happened due to a misalignment during the minting process, creating an unmistakable and highly sought-after error.
Collectors have paid upwards of $15,000 to $50,000 or more for a well-preserved example of this coin, depending on its condition.
What Makes This Error So Special?
The 1955 Double Die isn’t just a minor flaw—it’s a striking and obvious misprint that anyone can recognize without magnification. It’s also quite rare, as only a limited number were released before the Mint caught the mistake. The combination of visual impact, rarity, and historical interest has made it one of the most coveted error coins in U.S. history.
How to Spot One in Your Collection
If you come across a 1955 Lincoln Wheat Penny, examine the front closely. Look for:
- Strong doubling on the text and date
- No doubling on the reverse (back side)
- A clear, copper-red or brown color depending on condition
If your penny shows these traits, it’s time to have it authenticated by a professional grading service such as PCGS or NGC.
Your Penny Could Be Priceless
The 1955 Double Die Lincoln Wheat Penny proves that even the smallest error can create massive value in the world of coin collecting. If you’re lucky enough to find one, you could be holding a small fortune in the palm of your hand. Take a moment to check your old change—this rare error might just be waiting for you to discover it.
FAQ’s:
1. What is a double die error?
A double die error occurs when a coin die is improperly engraved, causing the image to be struck twice and appear doubled on the coin.
2. How much is a 1955 Double Die Penny worth?
Depending on its condition, it can be worth anywhere from $1,000 in circulated condition to $50,000+ in mint state.
3. How rare is the 1955 Double Die Lincoln Penny?
It’s considered quite rare, with only about 20,000 to 24,000 believed to have entered circulation.
4. Can I find a 1955 Double Die in pocket change today?
While rare, it is still possible, especially in old coin rolls, jars, or inherited collections.
5. What should I do if I think I have one?
Avoid cleaning it and contact a reputable coin grading service for authentication and appraisal.