If you’re into coin collecting or love the thrill of uncovering rare treasures, there’s one U.S. coin that’s got collectors talking — the 1958 Doubled Die Lincoln cent. Thanks to a striking minting error and extremely low mintage, this little copper penny has sold for more than $220,000 at auction.
Let’s break down what makes this coin so rare, how to spot one, and why it’s become one of the most valuable error coins in American history.
Error
A doubled die coin is created when a coin is struck using a die that was accidentally misaligned during production. This causes key parts of the design — usually letters or numbers — to appear doubled.
On the 1958 Doubled Die penny, the error is very obvious. You’ll see noticeable doubling on the phrases “In God We Trust,” “Liberty,” and even the date “1958.” This kind of error is not just easy to spot but incredibly rare, especially from this year.
Mint
The 1958 Doubled Die cent was struck at the Philadelphia Mint. Coins from this mint during that time didn’t carry a mint mark, so you won’t see any letter next to the date.
What makes this version of the penny so valuable is the fact that only a small handful were ever minted. Experts believe fewer than 20 genuine examples are known to exist today. That puts this coin in the ultra-rare category, even among serious collectors.
Value
So how much is this tiny coin worth?
One of the finest known examples of the 1958 Doubled Die Lincoln cent sold for an incredible $224,831 at auction. That’s more than the price of many luxury cars — and more than some homes.
Its value is driven by a combination of rarity, the clarity of the doubling error, and the strong demand from collectors. Any coin with bold, visible doubling is already appealing to collectors — but the limited number of surviving 1958 versions makes this one of the most desirable U.S. pennies ever.
Identify
Think you might have one of these rare coins? Here’s what to look for:
- Doubling in “In God We Trust”
- Obvious doubling on “Liberty”
- A slightly doubled “1958”
- No mint mark (Philadelphia Mint)
If your coin checks all the boxes, do not spend it or clean it. The best thing to do is get it verified by a professional coin grading service such as PCGS or NGC. They can confirm its authenticity and condition — both key factors in its value.
Legacy
The 1958 Doubled Die Lincoln cent is more than just a minting mistake. It’s one of the most iconic error coins in U.S. coinage. Its bold visual error and extreme rarity have made it a prized piece in any coin collection.
While most pennies are only worth one cent, this one proves that sometimes, a small coin can come with a six-figure surprise.
So if you ever find yourself sorting through old change or inherited collections, take a second look. A $220,000 coin might just be hiding in plain sight.
FAQs
What is a 1958 Doubled Die penny?
It’s a rare Lincoln cent with noticeable doubling in the text due to a minting error.
How many of these coins exist?
Fewer than 20 verified examples are known to exist.
How much is it worth today?
One sold for over $224,000 at auction.
How can I tell if I have one?
Look for doubled lettering on the front and no mint mark.
Where should I get it verified?
Use a professional coin grading service like PCGS or NGC.
