The 1970-S Doubled Die Penny: A $18,000 Modern Rarity

The Last Great Memorial Cent Doubled Die

The 1970-S Doubled Die Obverse (DDO) represents one of the most significant and valuable errors of the modern Lincoln Memorial cent series. Struck at the San Francisco Mint, these rare pennies combine dramatic doubling with proof-like surfaces to create a true collector’s prize.

Current Market Values

Recent sales include:

• $18,000 (PCGS PR67 DCAM, 2022)
• $9,200 (NGC PR65 DCAM, 2023)

How to Identify This Valuable Error

Key Identification Features:

✅ Date & Mintmark: Must be 1970-S
✅ Primary Doubling:

• “IN GOD WE TRUST” (most noticeable)
• “LIBERTY”
  ✅ Secondary Doubling:
• Date numerals (especially “7” and “0”)
• “S” mintmark
  ✅ Surface: Proof finish (mirror fields)

![Comparison showing normal vs. doubled die obverse]

Why Collectors Pay Premiums

1. Visual Impact:
   • Strong doubling visible without magnification
   • Cameo contrast enhances error visibility
2. Relative Rarity:
   • Estimated 5,000-10,000 struck
   • Few survive in gem condition
3. Historical Significance:
   • Last major doubled die of the 20th century
   • Transitional period for mint technology

Where to Find These Coins

1. Original Proof Sets (Especially unsearched)
2. Specialty Dealers (Error coin specialists)
3. Coin Shows (Look for “SMS” sets)

Authentication Tips

⚠️ Warning: Many fakes exist

• True 1970-S DDO shows:
  • Flow lines from die preparation
  • Consistent doubling pattern
  • No tool marks

Verification Steps:

1. PCGS/NGC certification
2. Compare to known examples
3. Proof surface verification

“Could My 1970-S Penny Be a DDO?” Checklist

1. Check proof sets for doubling
2. Examine under 10x magnification
3. Verify cameo contrast
4. Consult CONECA experts

If you find one:

• Handle by edges only
• Store in archival flip
• Consider professional grading

Discover More Rare Pennies!
Visit PennyVerse.info for:

• Free error identification guides
• Current market reports
• Collector community

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PS: Your proof set might contain a $18,000 surprise – check today! 🔍💰

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