A woman recently thought she had a Canadian penny in her change, but it turned out to be a rare U.S. Lincoln Wheat Penny worth $75,000. The Lincoln Wheat Penny, minted from 1909 to 1958, is a common find in old coin jars, but certain versions with unique errors or features can be worth a fortune. This particular penny, mistaken for foreign change, has sparked excitement among collectors, and experts say more could be hiding in plain sight. Could your pocket change hold a similar treasure?
The Surprising Discovery
The penny in question is a 1955 Doubled Die Obverse Lincoln Wheat Penny, known for its noticeable error where the date and text on the front appear doubled. The woman, unaware of its value, thought it was a Canadian coin due to its worn, coppery look. When she showed it to a coin dealer, they confirmed its rarity. This error happened when the U.S. Mint misaligned the die during production, creating a distinct doubling effect. In good condition, these pennies can fetch up to $75,000 at auction, making her find a life-changing surprise.
How to Spot a Valuable Wheat Penny
Identifying a 1955 Doubled Die penny is straightforward if you know what to look for. Check the date—it must be 1955. Then, use a magnifying glass to inspect the front for doubling in the numbers and words, especially “LIBERTY” and “IN GOD WE TRUST.” The doubling is clear, not blurry. Also, look for the mint mark (a small “D” or “S” under the date, or none for Philadelphia). Here’s a quick guide:
| Feature | Regular 1955 Penny | 1955 Doubled Die Penny |
|---|---|---|
| Date | 1955 | 1955 |
| Obverse Design | Normal text | Doubled text/date |
| Mint Mark | None, D, or S | None, D, or S |
| Value (if good condition) | ~10 cents | Up to $75,000 |
If you suspect you have one, take it to a coin shop for appraisal.
Why Is It Worth So Much?
The $75,000 price comes from the coin’s rarity and collector demand. The 1955 Doubled Die error was a big mistake at the Mint, but thousands were released before it was caught. While not as rare as some other error coins, a well-preserved 1955 Doubled Die penny is highly sought after for its bold, visible error. Collectors love coins that tell a story, and this one’s clear doubling makes it a standout. Auction houses report strong interest, with top-grade examples (MS-65 or higher) fetching the highest prices.
Could More Be in Circulation?
Absolutely. Many 1955 Doubled Die pennies were spent as regular money, so they could still be in circulation or tucked away in coin collections. Stories like this woman’s, where a valuable coin is mistaken for something common, are not unusual. Pennies often get overlooked, especially if they’re worn or resemble foreign coins. Coin experts urge people to check old pennies, especially from the 1950s, in change, piggy banks, or inherited collections. Social media platforms like X are buzzing with tips on spotting these valuable coins.
What to Do With Your Pennies
If you want to hunt for a 1955 Doubled Die penny, start by checking your loose change or old coin jars. Don’t clean any pennies you find cleaning can lower their value. Store them in a soft cloth or coin holder and visit a reputable coin dealer for verification. Joining coin-collecting groups or following numismatic news online can keep you updated on rare finds. Even if you don’t find a $75,000 penny, other Wheat Pennies can be worth hundreds, making the search worth your time.