Could Your Penny Have This Extraordinary Error?
A remarkable 1955 Lincoln wheat penny featuring the dramatic “NIGHT” error instead of “IN GOD WE TRUST” recently sold for $24,000 at auction. At PennyVerse.info, we’ve analyzed this incredible error coin to help you identify similar valuable varieties in your collection.
Understanding the “NIGHT” Error Penny
Key Features of This Rare Coin
- Obverse Error: Shows “NIGHT 1955” instead of proper date position
- Reverse Error: Displays “OFAMERICA” (merged lettering)
- Additional Anomaly: “GODWESTRUSH” inscription
- Weight: Normal 3.11g copper composition
- Mintmark: Philadelphia (no mintmark)
How This Extraordinary Error Occurred
The Minting Process Gone Wrong
- Multiple Strike Error: Coin was struck several times while rotating
- Die Clash: Obverse and reverse dies impacted without planchet
- Misaligned Hub: Lettering elements transferred incorrectly
- Rotated Die: Approximately 45 degree rotation during striking
Grading & Valuation
| Grade | Description | Value Range |
|---|---|---|
| AG-3 | Heavy wear, errors visible | 1,000−1,000−2,500 |
| G-4 | Clear outlines, major wear | 2,500−2,500−5,000 |
| VF-20 | Moderate wear, details emerging | 5,000−5,000−10,000 |
| AU-50 | Light wear, mint luster remains | 10,000−10,000−15,000 |
| MS-63 | Few marks, strong eye appeal | 15,000−15,000−24,000 |
How to Identify Similar Error Coins
1. Examine Lettering Carefully
- Look for missing or merged letters
- Check for unexpected words formed by partial strikes
- Verify letter orientation and spacing
2. Check for Rotation Errors
- Compare alignment of obverse and reverse
- Look for diagonal impressions
- Note any overlapping design elements
3. Weight & Composition Test
- Authentic 1955 pennies weigh 3.11g
- Must be 95% copper (not magnetic)
- Diameter should be 19mm
Where to Find These Rare Errors
- Old Coin Rolls – Search original 1950s wheat cent rolls
- Estate Sales – Look for untouched collections
- Coin Dealers’ Junk Boxes – Some overlook dramatic errors
- Online Auctions – Search for “1955 penny errors”
Professional Authentication Process
- Initial Examination:
- High-resolution photos of both sides
- Precise weight measurement
- Edge inspection
- Magnification Analysis:
- 10x loupe for initial review
- 20-40x microscope for detail
- Professional Certification:
- PCGS or NGC error attribution
- Special “NIGHT” variety designation
- Cost: 75−75−150 (worth 10x value increase)
Selling Your Error Coin
Best Platforms for Maximum Value
- Heritage Auctions (Record prices for errors)
- GreatCollections (Specialized error coin market)
- Error Coin Convention (Direct to specialist buyers)
- PCGS Set Registry (Target Lincoln cent collectors)
Beware of Counterfeits
Common fakes include:
- Laser-engraved alterations
- Electroplated coins with added details
- Tooled coins (visible marks under magnification)
- Cast copies (bubbles in metal)
Join Our Error Coin Hunter Community
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- Free weekly error coin alerts
- Live video examination sessions
- Access to our error coin database
- Members-only buying opportunities
Found an interesting error coin? Our experts provide free preliminary evaluations – submit your photos today!
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