At Pennyverse.info, we’ve uncovered how ordinary 1984 pennies can be worth up to $300 thanks to a fascinating mint error. Here’s exactly how to identify these valuable coins and maximize your profit.
Why Some 1984 Pennies Are Worth $300+
The “Double Ear” Error Explained
✔ Visible Extra Earlobe: A clear doubling under Lincoln’s normal ear
✔ Caused by: Misaligned die during striking at the Philadelphia or Denver mint
✔ Recent Sales:
- 80−80−100 (uncertified)
- $300 (PCGS-certified MS-65)
🔍 How to Spot It:
- Use a 10x magnifier to check under Lincoln’s ear
- Compare to a normal 1984 penny (no extra lobe)
Step-by-Step Identification Guide
1. Sort All 1984 Pennies
- Check both Philadelphia (no mintmark) and Denver (“D”) coins
- Errors exist in both varieties
2. Examine Lincoln’s Ear Closely
✅ Double Ear Error:
- A second, slightly offset earlobe beneath the main one
- Looks like a “shadow” or duplicate curve
❌ Normal 1984 Penny:
- Only one clean earlobe
3. Verify Weight & Details
- Must weigh 2.5g (standard penny weight)
- No signs of artificial doubling (e.g., plating errors)
Grading & Value Breakdown
| Condition | Uncertified Value | PCGS-Certified Value |
|---|---|---|
| Circulated | 20−20−50 | 80−80−150 |
| MS-63 | 50−50−100 | 150−150−250 |
| MS-65+ | $100+ | $300+ |
💡 Key Tip: Certification triples the value—never sell raw!
Where to Find These Error Pennies
- Bank coin rolls (ask for customer-wrapped pennies)
- Estate sales (old collections often contain errors)
- eBay bulk lots (sold as “unsearched wheat cents”)
How to Sell for Maximum Profit
1. Get It Certified
- Submit to PCGS (pcgs.com/submissions)
- Cost: **~50∗∗(worthitfora50∗∗(worthitfora300+ coin)
2. Choose the Right Marketplace
✅ eBay (best for uncertified errors, 80−80−100)
✅ Heritage Auctions (best for certified coins, 200−200−300)
✅ Coin forums (collectors pay premiums for errors)
⚠ Avoid:
❌ Pawn shops (lowball offers)
❌ “Cash for coins” kiosks
Join the 1984 Penny Hunt!
🔎 Your Action Plan:
- Inspect all 1984 pennies tonight
- Use our magnifier trick to spot the double ear
- Post photos in comments if you find one!
💬 Question for You:
“Would you rather find ten 30errorpenniesorone30errorpenniesorone300 certified coin?”
Debate at Pennyverse.info!
Why This Matters Now
Error coins are booming in value, and the 1984 double ear is a perfect example. At Pennyverse.info, we help collectors turn everyday finds into cash.
Found a double ear penny? Get expert advice before selling!
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