The 1972 Doubled Die Penny: A $14,000 Hidden Treasure

The Most Sought-After Modern Lincoln Error

The 1972 Doubled Die Obverse (DDO) stands as the most valuable and recognizable doubled die in the Lincoln Memorial cent series. With dramatic doubling visible to the naked eye, these coins offer collectors a spectacular error from the modern era.

Current Market Values (2024)

Recent Notable Sales:

• $14,400 (PCGS MS67RD, Heritage Auctions)
• $8,625 (NGC MS66RD)
• $4,312 (PCGS MS65RD)

How to Identify This Prize-Winning Error

Key Identification Features:

✅ Date: Must be 1972 (no mint mark – Philadelphia only)
✅ Clear Doubling On:

• “IN GOD WE TRUST” (most pronounced)
• “LIBERTY”
• Date (especially the “7” and “2”)
  ✅ Weight: 3.11 grams (copper composition)
  ✅ Edge: Plain (normal Memorial cent edge)

![Side-by-side comparison showing normal vs. doubled die obverse]

Why This Error Commands Premium Prices

1. Visual Drama:
   • One of the strongest modern doubled dies
   • Doubling visible without magnification
2. Relative Rarity:
   • Estimated 20,000-50,000 struck
   • Few survive in gem condition
3. Collector Demand:
   • Needed for modern error collections
   • Popular with registry set competitors

Where to Hunt for These Coins

Best Sources:

1. Old Bank Rolls (Especially 1970s wheat cent rolls)
2. Estate Sales (Look for original mint sets)
3. Coin Dealer “Junk” Bins (Often overlooked)

Pro Hunting Tips:

• Use a 10x loupe for initial screening
• Focus on red (RD) specimens for maximum value
• Check every 1972 penny – they’re still out there!

Grading & Authentication Advice

Critical Grading Factors:

• Red Color Preservation (RD > RB > BN)
• Strike Sharpness (Full LIBERTY details)
• Surface Quality (No marks or spots)

Beware of Fakes:

• Many altered coins with artificial doubling exist
• True 1972 DDO shows:
  • Proper flow lines
  • Consistent doubling pattern
  • No tool marks

“I Found a 1972 DDO – Now What?” Checklist

1. Don’t Clean! (Handle by edges only)
2. Photograph under natural light
3. Compare to PCGS CoinFacts images
4. Get Professional Opinion before selling

Grading Cost: 50−50−100 (worth it for potential $10,000+ coin)

Want More Rare Penny Insights?
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PS: That jar of old pennies might contain a five-figure treasure – happy hunting! 🔍💰

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