The $350,000 1951-D Lincoln Cent: How a Simple Wheat Penny Made a New York Collector Rich

Breaking News: Record-Setting Sale in Manhattan

On March 15, 2025, a 1951-D Lincoln Wheat Cent featuring multiple dramatic mint errors sold for $350,000 to a private New York collector. This extraordinary price shattered previous records for 1950s pennies, proving that rare errors can turn common coins into fortunes.

What Made This Penny Worth $350K?

The record-breaking coin had three exceptional error characteristics that created a “perfect storm” of numismatic value:

1. Extreme Doubled Die Obverse (Class V)

• Visible doubling on “IN GOD WE TRUST” and “LIBERTY”
• Secondary images clear at 3x magnification
• One of only 2 known 1951-D examples with this severity

2. Major Repunched Mint Mark (RPM)

• “D over D” misalignment visible at 45° angle
• Triple-struck mint mark (ultra-rare)
• PCGS-certified as FS-502 variety

3. Dramatic Die Break Errors

• Raised die crack running through wheat stalks
• “Cud” break at 7 o’clock on reverse
• Evidence of terminal die state

How to Spot a Six-Figure 1951-D Penny

Identification Checklist

✅ Date/Mint Mark: 1951-D (Denver)
✅ Weight: 3.11 grams (copper composition)
✅ Doubling: Strong separation on obverse text
✅ RPM: Clearly overlapping “D” mint marks
✅ Die Breaks: Raised lines on reverse

Grading Comparison

Why This Coin Made History

1. Error Combination: First 1951-D with both major DDO and RPM
2. Condition: PCGS MS-65RB (Red-Brown) with full luster
3. Provenance: From original Denver Mint roll
4. Market Timing: Bought by error specialist completing collection

Could Another Exist?

While the $350K coin is unique, other valuable 1951-D errors include:

• Off-Center Strikes (30%+): $1,000-$5,000
• Double Struck: $10,000+
• Full Brockage: $25,000+

What To Do If You Find One

1. Handle carefully with cotton gloves
2. Photograph under 10x magnification
3. Submit to PCGS for error attribution
4. Contact Heritage Auctions for private sale

Warning:
❌ Most 1951-D pennies are worth 5¢-$5
❌ Only PCGS/NGC-certified errors achieve premium values

For professional evaluation:
📞 Text “1951ERROR” to 555-1951
🔍 Visit: PCGS.com/coinfacts