The world of coin collecting is filled with fascinating stories of rare finds that can fetch incredible sums at auction. One such coin is the 1917 Doubled Die Lincoln Penny, which has captured the attention of numismatists and collectors alike.
Due to its unique minting error, this penny could be worth as much as $95,000, depending on its condition and authenticity.
If you’ve found a 1917 Lincoln Penny tucked away in your drawer, you may want to take a closer look—it could be a hidden gem.
Let’s explore what makes the 1917 Doubled Die Lincoln Penny so valuable, and how you can determine if yours might be worth a fortune.
What Is a Doubled Die Coin?
Before diving into the specifics of the 1917 Doubled Die Lincoln Penny, it’s essential to understand what a doubled die coin is.
A doubled die occurs during the minting process when a die strikes a coin more than once, causing a shift in the design. This results in a “doubling” effect on the coin’s inscriptions or image, making certain features appear blurry or double.
For the 1917 Lincoln Penny, the doubled die error is most noticeable on the obverse side, where the word “LIBERTY” and the date “1917” appear to have a double imprint. This minting flaw is what makes the coin unique and highly sought after by collectors.
What Makes the 1917 Doubled Die Lincoln Penny Valuable?
Several factors contribute to the value of the 1917 Doubled Die Lincoln Penny, primarily its rarity and the error itself.
While the U.S. Mint produced millions of Lincoln Pennies, only a small percentage of these coins exhibit the doubled die error. This makes the 1917 Doubled Die Lincoln Penny one of the most valuable error coins in the series.
Rarity
The 1917 Doubled Die Lincoln Penny was a minting error, and only a limited number of these coins made it into circulation. The rarity of this error coin makes it highly desirable among collectors.
Historical Significance
The 1917 penny is part of the iconic Lincoln series, which has long been cherished by collectors. Given the historical importance of Abraham Lincoln to the United States, any coin from this series tends to hold more appeal than other coins from the same era.
Condition
As with all rare coins, the condition of the 1917 Doubled Die Lincoln Penny plays a significant role in determining its value. Coins that have been well-preserved, with clear and sharp doubling on the design, can fetch a higher price. A coin in near-mint condition can be valued significantly higher than one with noticeable wear.
How Much Is the 1917 Doubled Die Lincoln Penny Worth?
The value of a 1917 Doubled Die Lincoln Penny can range dramatically depending on its condition. In general, you can expect to see these coins sell for anywhere between $100 for heavily worn examples to upwards of $95,000 for coins in mint or near-mint condition.
Condition and Price Breakdown
- Poor to Average Condition: $100 – $500
- Fine Condition: $1,000 – $2,000
- Good Condition (AU-50): $5,000 – $10,000
- Uncirculated Condition (MS-60): $30,000 – $50,000
- Mint Condition (MS-65 or higher): Up to $95,000+
Coins that are graded by professional services like PCGS or NGC and show minimal wear with clear doubling are the most valuable. The higher the grade, the more likely the coin is to achieve a top-tier price.
How to Identify the 1917 Doubled Die Lincoln Penny
If you believe you may have a 1917 Doubled Die Lincoln Penny, it’s essential to know how to spot the error. The most noticeable features of the doubling can be found on the word “LIBERTY” and the date “1917.”
In particular, the “L” and “Y” of LIBERTY appear doubled, and the “1” and “9” of the date exhibit clear signs of a minting error.
Key Features to Look For:
- Doubling on the Word “LIBERTY”: Look for noticeable doubling on the “L,” “I,” “B,” “E,” “R,” “T,” and “Y.”
- Doubling on the Date “1917”: The “1” and “9” should have a doubled or blurry effect.
- Sharpness of the Details: The sharper the doubling and clearer the features, the more valuable the coin will be.
If your coin exhibits these characteristics and appears well-preserved, it may be worth having it professionally graded and authenticated by a recognized grading service to ensure its value.
Estimated Value of the 1917 Doubled Die Lincoln Penny Based on Condition
| Condition | Estimated Value Range |
|---|---|
| Poor to Average Condition | $100 – $500 |
| Fine Condition | $1,000 – $2,000 |
| Good Condition (AU-50) | $5,000 – $10,000 |
| Uncirculated (MS-60) | $30,000 – $50,000 |
| Mint Condition (MS-65) | Up to $95,000 |
Where to Buy or Sell the 1917 Doubled Die Lincoln Penny
If you find a 1917 Doubled Die Lincoln Penny, consider having it graded by a professional service like the Numismatic Guaranty Corporation (NGC) or the Professional Coin Grading Service (PCGS) to determine its value.
Once graded, you can either sell it through a reputable coin dealer, at an auction, or through trusted online platforms specializing in rare coins.
The 1917 Doubled Die Lincoln Penny is a coin that could be worth a small fortune, especially if you find one in great condition. Due to its rarity and minting error, this coin is highly coveted by collectors and can fetch prices as high as $95,000.
If you have a 1917 penny in your drawer, take a closer look—it could be more valuable than you think. With proper authentication and grading, your coin might just turn out to be a hidden treasure.
FAQs
What makes the 1917 Doubled Die Lincoln Penny valuable?
The 1917 Doubled Die Lincoln Penny is valuable due to its rarity and the minting error that causes the doubling effect on the word “LIBERTY” and the date “1917,” making it highly sought after by collectors.
How can I tell if my 1917 Lincoln Penny is a Doubled Die?
Look for visible doubling on the word “LIBERTY” and the date “1917.” If these features are clearly doubled, you likely have a 1917 Doubled Die Lincoln Penny.
How much is a 1917 Doubled Die Lincoln Penny worth?
Depending on its condition, the value can range from $100 for heavily worn examples to as much as $95,000 for coins in mint condition.
How do I get my 1917 Doubled Die Lincoln Penny authenticated?
You can send your coin to professional grading services like PCGS or NGC for authentication and grading, which will determine its value.