1968 Lincoln Penny Error Guide: Rare Varieties Worth Up to $15,000

Introduction to 1968 Penny Errors

While most 1968 Lincoln cents are common, certain mint errors and varieties can transform these ordinary coins into four and five-figure treasures. This guide reveals the most valuable errors collectors are hunting for today.

Top 5 Most Valuable 1968 Penny Errors

1. Doubled Die Obverse (DDO) – Up to $1,000

![Close-up of 1968-S DDO showing doubling on date]

• Key Features:
  • Doubling visible on “LIBERTY” and date
  • Most common on 1968-S proofs
• Values:
  • Minor doubling: 20−20−100
  • PR68: 500−500−1,000
• Recent Sale: $517 (PR68, Heritage Auctions)

2. Bonded With Costa Rica 5 Centimos – $15,000 Rarity

![Unique two-tone bonded error coin]

• Extreme Rarity: Only 1 known specimen
• Characteristics:
  • Two metals bonded together
  • Partial Lincoln design on foreign planchet
• Auction Record: $15,000 (PCGS-graded)

3. Struck on Canada Dime Planchet – $1,400+

![1968 penny struck on silver dime planchet]

• Key Identifiers:
  • Silver color instead of copper
  • 2.07g weight (normal=3.11g)
• Recent Sale: $1,410 (NGC MS64)

4. Off-Center Strikes – Up to $100+

![Dramatic off-center strike example]

• Value Factors:
  • 5-10% off-center: 5−5−20
  • 30%+ off-center: 50−50−150
  • 60%+ off-center: $200+
• Recent Sale: $86 (60% off-center MS65BN)

5. Repunched Mint Marks (RPM) – 5−5−25 Premium

![Close-up of repunched “D” mint mark]

• Identification:
  • Visible doubling or overlapping of mint mark
  • Most common on Denver issues
• Value Added: Typically 5−5−25

How to Authenticate Your 1968 Penny

4-Step Verification Process:

1. Magnet Test
   • Real 1968 pennies won’t stick (copper)
   • Counterfeits may use magnetic metals
2. Weight Check
   • Must weigh 3.11g (except planchet errors)
3. Mint Mark Inspection
   • Compare to known genuine examples
   • Look for proper size/position
4. Date Font Analysis
   • Match to authentic 1968 fonts
   • Beware of altered dates

When in doubt, consult PCGS/NGC certification

Where to Find These Error Coins

Best Hunting Grounds:

• Original Mint Sets (For proof errors)
• Bank Rolls (Especially old stock)
• Estate Sales (Unsearched collections)

Essential Tools:

• 10x loupe ($10-20)
• Precision scale (0.01g accuracy)
• Calipers (measure diameter)

Market Trends (2024)

• Error coins appreciating 10-15% annually
• High-grade proofs in strong demand
• Unique planchet errors setting records

“I Found a Potential Error – Now What?”

1. Don’t Clean! (Preserve surfaces)
2. Photograph (Obverse, reverse, edge)
3. Compare to PCGS CoinFacts
4. Consider Grading if value >$500

Grading Cost: 30−30−75 (worth it for valuable errors)

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PS: Your pocket change could contain a $15,000 rarity – check those 1968 dates! 🔍💰

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