A seemingly ordinary coin jar in a Midwest home turned into a goldmine when a rare 1969-S Doubled Die Lincoln Penny was discovered.
The coin, long overlooked and assumed to be worth just one cent, turned out to be a numismatic treasure, fetching $750,000 at a recent auction.
This remarkable discovery has rekindled interest in rare pennies and the hidden gems that might still be lying unnoticed in people’s homes.
What Makes the 1969-S Doubled Die Penny So Special?
The 1969-S Lincoln Penny is known for its doubled die obverse (DDO) – a minting error that results in visibly duplicated inscriptions on the coin’s front. Most notably, the words “LIBERTY,” “IN GOD WE TRUST,” and the date “1969” show significant doubling that is visible even without magnification.
These features are not the result of wear, but due to a misalignment during the die creation process at the San Francisco Mint.
What sets the 1969-S apart is its rarity and clarity of the doubling. Unlike some error coins with subtle mistakes, the doubling on this coin is dramatic and immediately noticeable, making it one of the most desirable coins among collectors.
Key Facts About the 1969-S Doubled Die Penny
| Feature | Details |
|---|---|
| Year | 1969 |
| Mint Mark | S (San Francisco) |
| Error Type | Doubled Die Obverse |
| Estimated Surviving Examples | Fewer than 100 |
| Auction Sale Price | $750,000 |
| Most Notable Doubling | “LIBERTY”, “IN GOD WE TRUST”, “1969” |
| Material | 95% Copper, 5% Zinc |
| Weight | 3.11 grams |
| Designers | Victor D. Brenner (obverse), Frank Gasparro (reverse) |
How It Was Found
The coin was discovered by a retired man in Illinois while sorting through a jar of old pennies. The distinct doubling caught his eye, prompting him to consult a local coin expert.
Authentication followed quickly, and the penny was later graded by PCGS as MS-64 Red, making it one of the highest quality examples known to exist.
After authentication, the coin was put up for auction where it sparked a bidding war among elite collectors, eventually closing at $750,000. The owner, who had no prior experience in coin collecting, was stunned by the outcome.
Why These Pennies Are So Rare
The U.S. Mint quickly caught the error back in 1969 and most of the flawed coins were destroyed. Only a handful escaped into circulation, making any surviving examples extremely valuable. Furthermore, fakes and counterfeits exist, so authentication is crucial before declaring a penny to be the real 1969-S Doubled Die.
The stunning $750,000 sale of the 1969-S Doubled Die Penny proves that even the most unexpected places—like a dusty coin jar—can hide treasures.
With fewer than 100 known to exist, the value of these coins is likely to rise. For collectors and casual owners alike, it’s a timely reminder to check your change—you might be holding onto a small fortune without even knowing it.
FAQs
How can I tell if I have a real 1969-S Doubled Die Penny?
Look for clear doubling on “LIBERTY” and “IN GOD WE TRUST.” Always consult a certified coin grading service for authentication.
How much can a circulated 1969-S Doubled Die Penny be worth?
Depending on condition, authenticated circulated examples can still sell for $35,000 to over $100,000.
Are there other doubled die pennies worth money?
Yes, notable ones include the 1955 and 1972 Doubled Die Pennies, though the 1969-S is one of the rarest and most valuable.