1969-S Doubled Die Penny: The $100,000+ Error Coin Guide

By PennyVerse.info

The 1969-S Doubled Die Obverse penny is one of the most famous and valuable error coins in U.S. history, with specimens selling for over $100,000. At PennyVerse.info, we’ve created this comprehensive guide to help you identify this legendary rarity in your collection.

1969-S Doubled Die Obverse: Key Facts

• Mintage: Estimated 40-50 known specimens
• Record Sale: $126,500 (PCGS MS-64 RD)
• Recent Prices:
  • MS-63 RB: $24,000
  • AU-55: $35,000
  • MS-65 RD: $100,000+

How to Identify the Genuine 1969-S DDO

1. Obverse Doubling Characteristics

• Clear doubling in “LIBERTY” (most prominent at B and E)
• Doubled date (especially visible in the 9 and 6)
• Doubled profile (visible separation on Lincoln’s cheek)

2. Mint Mark Verification

• Must have “S” mint mark below date
• No “S” = Not the valuable variety
• Mint mark should show no doubling

3. Weight & Composition

• Correct weight: 3.11 grams
• Composition: 95% copper, 5% zinc
• Warning: Any deviation suggests counterfeit

Grading & Authentication

Professional Certification is Mandatory

• PCGS/NGC only for this high-value error
• CAC sticker adds premium for quality coins
• Authentication cost: 150−150−300 (worth it)

Condition Matters

• Red (RD): Full original luster (most valuable)
• Red-Brown (RB): Partial luster
• Brown (BN): Least valuable but still rare

Market Trends & Selling Advice

Current Demand

• Registry set collectors driving prices
• Type set collectors competing for examples
• Museum collections seeking specimens

Where to Sell

• Heritage Auctions (record prices)
• Stack’s Bowers (specialist error sales)
• Private treaty through trusted dealers

Beware of Counterfeits

Common Fakes Include:

• Electrotype copies (wrong weight/sound)
• Altered 1969 Philadelphia coins (added “S”)
• 1969-S proof coins (different doubling)

Verification Steps:

1. Weigh your coin
2. Check edge color
3. Compare to PCGS images
4. Get professional opinion

Could More Exist?

• Theoretical possibility: Yes
• Where to search:
  • Old proof sets
  • Inherited collections
  • Original bank rolls

Free Resources

• 1969-S DDO Comparison Images
• How to Photograph Error Coins
• Current Auction Results

Think you’ve found one? Get expert verification at PennyVerse.info.