1917 Lincoln Wheat Cent Doubled Die Obverse: $6,500+ Value Guide

How to Identify This Valuable Early Wheat Penny Error

At CoinVerse.Pro, we authenticate the sought-after 1917 Doubled Die Obverse (DDO) wheat penny – a prized error that can be worth $6,500+ in top condition. Here’s how to spot this valuable mint mistake.

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Key Identification Features

➡️ Obverse (Front) Errors:

• Visible doubling on “LIBERTY” (especially the “B” and “R”)
• Doubled date “1917” (look at the second “1” and “7”)
• Slight doubling on Lincoln’s profile (check cheek and jawline)

➡️ Error Specifications:
✅ Class III Doubled Die Obverse
✅ FS-101 Variety (official recognition)
✅ Philadelphia Mint (no mintmark)

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Valuation Breakdown (2024 Market)

Grade	Certified Value	Raw Coin Value
MS-65 RB	$5,000–$7,500 💎	$3,000–$5,000
MS-63 RB	$2,500–$4,000	$1,800–$3,000
AU-58	$1,200–$2,000	$800–$1,500

Recent Sale: A 1917 DDO graded MS-64 RB sold for $6,504 in 2023.

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4-Step Authentication Process

1️⃣ Magnification Check (10x-20x)

• Clear separation lines in doubling
• Verify doubling pattern matches known varieties

2️⃣ Weight/Diameter Verification

• Must be 3.11g (95% copper)
• Diameter: 19mm

3️⃣ Surface Examination

• Look for original red-brown toning
• Check for authentic wear patterns

4️⃣ Professional Attribution

• Submit to PCGS/NGC for variety certification

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Why This Error Commands $6,500+

✔️ One of the earliest Lincoln cent DDOs
✔️ Subtle but collectible doubling
✔️ 1917 date adds historical significance
✔️ Condition rarity in mint state

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Selling Recommendations

1. For Certified Coins:
   • Heritage Auctions “US Coin Signature Sale”
   • Stack’s Bowers “Error & Variety Auction”
2. For Raw Coins:
   • Local coin shows with variety specialists
   • Online forums (after proper identification)

⚠️ Important Note:

• Many 1917 pennies show machine doubling (worthless)
• True doubled dies have separation lines

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Free Evaluation Offer

Submit:

1. Close-up of date and “LIBERTY”
2. Full obverse/reverse photos
3. Weight measurement

🎁 Free With Submission:

• “Doubled Die Detection Guide”
• Current market trends report

💬 “We’re buying pre-1920 Lincoln errors!”
— Michael T. (Early Wheat Penny Specialist)

[🔍 CoinVerse Authentication]
[📅 Valuation Valid Until: Dec 1, 2024]

⏳ Reply “1917DDO” for Priority Review!

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