Rare 1972 Penny Error Valued at $35,000 – Plus 7 Hidden Coin Treasures!

Coin collecting is a rewarding pastime when you find out that some of the coins in your collection are worth more than face value. An example of one of these types of coins is the Doubled Die Obverse 1972 Lincoln Cent, which has brought as much as $14,400 at an auction.

In this article, we’ll delve into the details of this valuable penny and explore seven other modern coins that could be hiding in your collection, each with the potential to command significant sums.​

1972 Lincoln Cent with Doubled Die Obverse

The 1972 Lincoln Cent is noted for a mint mistake referred to as the Doubled Die Obverse (DDO). A mistake such as this causes observable doubling of legends on the front side of the coin, the most prominent ones being in the date “1972,” the word “LIBERTY,” and the expression “IN GOD WE TRUST.” It has been estimated that there exist roughly 20,000 such mistake coins.

Distinctively Worth Noting Prices and Sales:

• MS63 Grade: Between $250 and $500.
• MS65 Grade: Values between $1,500 and $3,000.​
• MS67 Grade: Priced at $14,400 during a Heritage Auction in 2019.​

7 Additional Contemporary Coins

1969-S Doubled Die Obverse Lincoln Cent

• Description: The cent features severe doubling on the obverse, specifically in the legends.​
• Historic Sale: A graded AU-55 specimen was sold for approximately $24,000.​

1999 Wide “AM” Reverse Lincoln Cent

• Description: In this variety, the letters “A” and “M” of “AMERICA” are farther apart on the reverse.​
• Notable Sale: Up to $500 has been paid for high-grade specimens.

1982 No Mint Mark Roosevelt Dime

• Description: Several dimes were mistakenly minted without a mint mark in 1982.​
• Notable Sale: These dimes can sell for several hundred dollars depending on condition.​

1970-S Small Date Doubled Die Obverse Lincoln Cent

• Description: Features a light doubling on the obverse and a distinct small date variety.​
• Notable Sale: High-grade pieces have sold for large sums, although precise prices vary. ​

2009 Lincoln Cent Professional Life Reverse with Satin Finish

• Description: They came out in special mint sets and have a satin finish along with a low mintage.
• Interesting Sale: They can be worth anywhere from a few hundred dollars depending on the grade

2005-D Speared Bison Jefferson Nickel

• Description: There is a die gouge shaped like a “spear” through the bison’s back on this nickel.
• Notable Sale: More than $1,000 is paid for top-grade specimens.​

2004-D Wisconsin State Quarter with Extra Leaf

• Description: An additional leaf was present on the ear of corn on some Wisconsin quarters because of a die error.
• Notable Sale: The value of these quarters can be anywhere from $300 to $1,500 depending on condition.

How to Check If You Have a Rare Coin

Think you may have one of these valuable coins? Here’s what to do:

• Examine with a magnifying glass important details.
• Look for mint marks and date mistakes.
• Weigh your coin—some rare coins were minted on the wrong metal planchets.
• Have it graded by PCGS or NGC to verify authenticity.

Conclusion

The 1972 Doubled Die Obverse Lincoln Cent is a prime example, with some specimens bringing outstanding prices at auction. Similarly, other recent coins discussed above illustrate that treasures might be lurking just beneath your fingers in your change or collection. Spending the time to sort through your coins and remain current with key varieties can lead to exciting and potentially valuable discoveries.​

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