What Are Mule Coins?
Mule coins are ultra-rare mint errors created when mismatched dies are accidentally paired. These mistakes produce coins with obverse (heads) and reverse (tails) from different denominations or designs, making them the holy grails of error collecting.
1. 1999 Lincoln Cent/Dime Mule – $138,000 Record Holder
Key Features:
- Obverse: Lincoln Memorial cent (1999 design)
- Reverse: Roosevelt dime (torch and wreath)
- Weight: 2.5g (between penny and dime weights)
- Mint Mark: None (Philadelphia)
Identification Checklist:
✅ Check for Lincoln’s portrait on obverse
✅ Verify dime reverse design (no wheat ears/memorial)
✅ Weigh coin (should be 2.5-2.7g)
✅ Edge should be plain (no reeding like dimes)
Recent Sales:
- $138,000 (PCGS MS63, 2022)
- Only 3 confirmed specimens exist
2. 1993-D Cent/Dime Mule – $51,750 Denver Rarity
Key Features:
- Obverse: Lincoln Memorial cent
- Reverse: Roosevelt dime
- Mint Mark: “D” (Denver)
- Weight: 2.5g
Spotting Tips:
🔍 Look for “D” mint mark below date
🔍 Compare to known examples (PCGS CoinFacts)
🔍 Note hybrid thickness (thinner than normal cent)
Market Insight:
Last auction: $51,750 (NGC MS64, 2021)
Estimated survivors: 5-7 coins
3. 1959-D Wheat Reverse Mule – $50,000 Transitional Error
Key Features:
- Obverse: 1959 Lincoln Memorial design
- Reverse: Wheat ears (should be Memorial)
- Mint Mark: “D” (Denver)
- Weight: 3.1g (copper)
Authentication Steps:
- Verify 1959 date with “D” mint mark
- Check for wheat ears (not Memorial building)
- Weigh coin (must be 3.11g)
- Examine for die polish marks near “TRUST”
Population:
Only 2 confirmed examples
Last sale: $50,000 (PCGS AU55)
How to Sell Mule Coins for Maximum Profit
Step 1: Absolute Verification
- Submit to PCGS/NGC for authentication ($150-300 fee)
- Request error attribution (e.g., “1999 Cent/Dime Mule”)
Step 2: Choose Selling Platform
| Coin Value | Best Marketplace | Tips |
|---|---|---|
| <$50,000 | GreatCollections | Good for mid-range errors |
| $50,000+ | Heritage Auctions | Handles record-setting sales |
| Private Sale | Legend Numismatics | Discreet transactions |
Step 3: Marketing Your Coin
- Professional Imaging: Essential for coins >$10k
- Certification: PCGS/NGC holders increase buyer confidence
- Provenance: Document any previous auction appearances
Where These Mules Hide Today
- Original Mint Sets (Check 1999 proof sets)
- Old Collections (Especially Denver-mint accumulations)
- Coin Dealer Inventories (Some may not recognize the error)
Detection Tools:
- 10x Loupe ($10-20)
- Precision Scale (0.01g accuracy)
- USB Microscope ($50) for die studies
Market Trends (2024)
- Mule demand up 25% since 2020
- Registry set collectors driving prices
- Counterfeits increasing – certification critical
FAQ
Q: Could I find a mule in circulation?
A: Extremely unlikely – most were caught by mint inspectors. Last circulation find was 2001.
Q: What’s the difference between a mule and double denomination?
A: Mules = wrong designs, double denominations = struck on wrong planchets.
Q: Should I buy raw “mules” online?
A: Never! Only purchase PCGS/NGC-certified examples.
“I Found a Potential Mule – Now What?”
- Don’t Touch Surfaces! (Handle by edges)
- Take HQ Photos (Obverse, reverse, edge)
- Contact PCGS for emergency submission
- Insure Immediately if authenticated
Grading Timeline: 2-3 weeks (express service available)
Want More? Download our FREE Mule Coin Identification Guide at [TrueMuleCoins.com]
Like & Share to help fellow collectors! #MuleCoins #CoinErrors #RareCoins
PS: That odd-looking coin could be a $138,000 treasure – examine carefully! 🚀💰
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