1963 Lincoln Penny: How to Spot the Rare Varieties Worth Thousands

By PennyVerse.info

Your ordinary-looking 1963 penny could be worth $5,000 or more! While most 1963 Lincoln cents are common, specific rare varieties and errors command significant premiums from collectors. Here’s how to identify these hidden treasures in your pocket change.

Most Valuable 1963 Penny Varieties

1. 1963-D Doubled Die Obverse (DDO)

• Value: 200−200−5,000+
• Key Features:
  • Clear doubling in “LIBERTY” and date
  • Most noticeable in “19” of the date
  • Must have “D” mint mark below date

2. 1963 Proof-Like (PL) or Deep Mirror Proof-Like (DMPL)

• Value: 50−50−1,500
• Key Features:
  • Mirror-like fields (Philadelphia issues only)
  • Cameo contrast between devices and fields
  • No mint mark (Philadelphia strikes)

3. 1963 Off-Center Strikes

• Value: 25−25−800
• Key Features:
  • 10-50% off-center strike
  • Complete date must be visible
  • Most valuable: 30-50% misalignment

Step-by-Step Identification Guide

1. Check the Mint Mark:
   • No mark = Philadelphia
   • “D” = Denver (more valuable errors)
2. Examine Under 10x Magnification:
   • Look for doubling in lettering/date
   • Check for repunched mint marks
   • Inspect strike quality
3. Assess Surface Quality:
   • Proof-like coins show mirror surfaces
   • Look for clean, undisturbed luster
4. Verify Weight & Composition:
   • Should weigh 3.11g (95% copper)
   • Bronze color throughout (no plating)

Where to Find Valuable 1963 Pennies

✅ Old Coin Rolls (especially original bank-wrapped)
✅ Estate Sales (in complete collections)
✅ Coin Dealer Bargain Bins (often overlooked)
✅ Inherited Collections (grandparents’ coin jars)

Current Market Values (2024)

How to Sell for Maximum Profit

💰 eBay Auctions – Best for errors under 1,000💰∗∗HeritageAuctions∗∗−Idealforcoinsover1,000💰∗∗HeritageAuctions∗∗−Idealforcoinsover1,000
💰 PCGS/NGC Certification – Adds 30-100% premium

Pro Tip: Photograph coins under natural light to best show errors!

Free Resources from PennyVerse.info

• 1963 Penny Error Checklist
• How to Grade Lincoln Cents
• Current Market Reports

Think you found a rare 1963 penny? Get a free expert evaluation at PennyVerse.info.