What Are Doubled Die Coins?

by

Joshua

Coin Values, Hobbies & Crafts

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I get a lot of questions here from readers about doubled die coins – more specifically, inquiries that are accompanied by photos of coins which appear to have doubling of their designs.

Example of a doubled die coin - 1972 double die penny

Yes, these are the types of coins that are sometimes found in pocket change.

Sometimes a lucky individual will have a real doubled die coin, but sometimes no.

So, what exactly is a doubled die? And, what is a die? And, why was the die doubled?

Let’s take a moment and double down on what a doubled die is (note the “d” at the end of “double”; double die coin isn’t the correct numismatic term), and talk about some of the most famous doubled die coins

How Doubled Die Coins Are Made

A doubled die coin is one that was struck by a die that was accidentally engraved with a doubled image; by the way, a die is the device that imprints an image on blank coins, which are also known as planchets.

Coin blank planchets

Dies are engraved by a positive, or relief, image of the coin called a hub; a hub is created by reducing down the image from an 8” to 12” plaster model.

Example of a doubled die coin with the word Liberty misaligned.

Sometimes, when a die is created, the hub will accidentally create two images on the coin, which will usually appear as a slight, overlapping misalignment of the same design twice on part of the coin.

Sometimes, the doubling will be quite extreme. In other cases, the doubling is barely noticeable.

How Much Are Doubled Die Coins Worth?

The value of doubled die coins depends greatly on the popularity of a given piece. In many cases, the news media has publicized the discovery of a doubled die. In other situations, a certain doubled die will have a sort of cult following within the greater hobby of coin collecting.

In many cases though, a doubled die coin is worth a certain value largely because it made the news and became a well-known and widely desired coin. Take, for example, the 1995 doubled die Lincoln cent, which is now a $20 coin that hit the national airwaves when it was first discovered.

In other situations, doubled dies are valuable simply because they are rare – like the elusive 1958-D doubled die cent, of which only three are known and boast a value in the six figures.

To learn more about doubled die coin values, you’d have to consider doubled dies individually.

There is no way that I could list every doubled die here in this post, so let’s take a look at some of the most well-known and rare doubled dies. They include:

  • 1917 doubled die obverse cent – $100
  • 1955 doubled die obverse cent – $1,500
  • 1958-D doubled die obverse cent – Unknown six figures
  • 1969-S doubled die obverse cent – $25,000
  • 1971 doubled die obverse cent – $100
  • 1972 doubled die obverse cent – $250
  • 1983 doubled die reverse cent – $200
  • 1984 doubled die obverse cent – $150
  • 1995 doubled die obverse cent – $20
  • 1916 doubled die obverse nickel – $4,000
  • 1934 doubled die obverse quarter – $100
  • 1937 doubled die obverse quarter – $150
  • 1943 doubled die obverse quarter – $500
  • 1943-S doubled die obverse quarter – $100
  • 1974-D doubled die obverse half dollar – $50

The values above are only approximations, and again – yes, this is not a list of all doubled die coins, so if you have a coin you think may be a doubled die but don’t see it listed here, please let me know! And, if you find one that is on this list, still, please share the details about your coin here. It’s always wonderful to hear from coin collectors who have made exciting finds. Just be wary of counterfeits and fakes…

Fake Doubled Die Coins

doubled die coins

One of the most classic examples of a fake (or, I’ll politely say, mislabeled) doubled die is the 1955 Poor Man’s Doubled Die penny. It’s not even a doubled die – it’s the result of a common strike defect called machine doubling, which happens when a coin is imprinted with a slight “doubled” effect as the die (or the coin) ricocheted off each other a bit during the striking process.

Most such pieces are regarded as defective coins by some numismatists, but the 1955 Poor Man’s penny has gained a foothold in the popular coin market to satisfy collectors who have holes for a 1955 doubled die Lincoln penny in their coin albums but can’t afford to buy the real deal. A 1955 Poor Man’s doubled die penny has a value of around $1 to $3.

In general, if you’re going to buy expensive doubled die coins, make sure they have been authenticated by a third-party coin grading company.

Did You Know?…

Doubled dies aren’t necessarily errors in the strictest sense.

Many collectors call doubled dies varieties rather than errors — because they involve a mistake in the die-making process not in the manufacturing of individual coins.

So, now you know!

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237 thoughts on “What Are Doubled Die Coins?”

    • Hi, Cindy –

      In general, a 1955 Lincoln wheat cent is worth about 5 to 10 cents, though the rare doubled-die version is worth over $1,000. The 1955 doubled-die penny is identifiable by the doubled date and lettering on the obverse (heads side) of the coin.

      Reply

  5. My name is James Weaver,
    I am in possession of 1958 double dye Lincoln Cent, — D/D. I had it graded by PCGS and the results were a population of #2.
    I would like for you to give me further information on what to do with this coin.
    P.S. I also have a photo of the coin available.

    Reply

    • Hi, James —

      The Class I 1958 doubled die is worth around $100,000, so it’s not the type of piece you’d walk into a coin dealer shop with and walk out counting your bundle of cash after selling it. It’s certainly the type of coin that would best be sold through a major auction house. Of course, if you are not interested in selling it, I’d suggest having it appraised by a professional coin dealer (sight seen), and then have it insured.

      Best,
      Josh

      Reply

      • I have a 1958 D Lincoln penny in very good condition and to me it looks like it is d/d on the 9 & 5 and the b on liberty is half filled in could u take a look and tell me what u think

        Reply

        • Hi, Josh!

          Would you mind posting a photo of your 1958 Lincoln wheat cent please? I will need to see if the doubling is caused by a double die or the coin being struck twice.

          Thanks!
          Josh

          Reply

  6. Hi I have a 1999 Delaware quarter that wasn’t print it on either side . I got it in a brand new role of Delaware quarters when the Delaware quarters first came out from the bank. Is it worth anything?

    Reply

    • Hi, Rosalinda —

      Would you please submit a photo of your unique-sounding coin so I can better evaluate it?

      Thank you,
      Josh

      Reply

  7. Hi my name is Ashton I just found a weird coin with James Garfield . But next to him is a cross on left and 2 strikes. The year is 2011 D I Wonding if it was worth something.

    P.S I can get a better picture if need one

    Thanks

    Reply

  9. Hello Im wondered if someone could tell me if this is a double die penny it is a 1983 but at the top on the State . Part of

    state its like flat but it looks like a new coin

    Reply

  10. Hello, David —

    Based on the images you provided, I can barely make out a possible sign of doubling on the reverse, but the image appears to be a bit blurry and I can’t tell for sure. If you wouldn’t mind trying to retake the image I would be glad to look again. I think I might see some doubling in “CENT” but don’t know for sure at this point.

    Thank you!
    Josh

    Reply

    • Hi, Heather —

      Would you please post a photo of your coin so I can see for sure whether it is a doubled die and, if so, what type you may have?

      Thank you,
      Josh

      Reply

  12. Hi, David —

    This is a beautiful chocolate brown 1924 Lincoln cent. The $485 value you read elsewhere is for a superb piece in Mint condition — very few pieces are anywhere close to that condition; yours is worth around 50 cents.

    Best,
    Josh

    Reply

  13. Hay, Josh. How are you? I have this here coin. Not shere what to call it , forgive me everyone .but this is were I login to find about coins..So here I amasking an haveing fun .what can you tell me about this……Still looking for that $ thank

    Reply

    • Hi, David!

      Doing well, thanks — I hope you are, too.

      Your 1988 Mexican 100 Peso coin is worth about 50 cents in that condition. A neat coin to collect nevertheless!

      Best,
      Josh

      Reply

  14. Hi, I am not a collector but just find the hunt somewhat fun. I am curious as to what this is. Machine doubling? I’ve included a picture. Please and thank you!

    Reply

    • Hi, Sheryl —

      What year and mintmark is this Lincoln cent, please? I would like to compare to all possible die varieties.

      I think this may be a case of possible post-mint damage, but I want to rule out all possible die varieties beforehand.

      Thank you,
      Josh

      Reply

      • Lol It is a 1969 S penny. I have other pics if needed. Thank you so much for your time, and yes I know it’s only 0.0000000000009% chance it’s a DD.

        Reply

        • Hi, Sheryl —

          I’m afraid this is not the 1969-S doubled die cent. However, it’s great that you’re keeping an eye out for these types of varieties. With a close eye, you’re sure to come across more interesting coins in the months ahead!

          Thank you for your question, and good luck!

          Best,
          Josh

          Reply

          • Hi, Sheryl —

            I do see what appears to be a C-shaped mark on the “E.” It might be raised, but I can’t tell for sure. If it is, its likely a piece of debris that was caught in the die; such pieces are worth about $1.

            If the “C” is incuse (carved into the coin), it’s a coin worth face value.

            Keep on checking your change!
            Josh

  16. I have Lincoln penny 1962-D, 1978-D, 1979-D, 1980, 1982, 1986-D, 1989-D, 1991-D, 1994, 1994-D, 2000-D & 2001-D. Can i know which of them have worth value?

    Thanks

    Reply

    • Hi, Rodel —

      Assuming all were found in pocket change, everything listed before 1982 is worth 2 cents for their copper value and the cents made since are worth face value.

      Thanks for your question,
      Josh

      Reply

  17. Hello Josh, I have 1946 s. It’s in pretty bad shape but I’m starting to wonder if there isn’t something from when it was made and then at the 1946 s that’s a lot of marks on it I don’t know what that came from if you could would you please take a look at it…

    Thsnk You ..

    Reply

    • Hi, David —

      It looks like your 1946-S Lincoln cent has had a few bumps and bruises during its 70 years. While your coin is worth about 3 cents, the story it could tell would be worth much more.

      Neat find,
      Josh

      Reply

  18. Hello Joshua I have a 1958 D wheat penny and I’m liking to know is how can I find out if it is a dead man’s penny?

    Reply

    • Hi, Keevan —

      The only way to know something like this is if you could trace the provenance (ownership chain) of this coin; this is best done if you knew rather or not this particular coin came from a certain estate, collector, etc. If you picked the coin up in circulation, there’s really no way to know.

      I hope the first part of my answer particularly helps a bit.

      Best,
      Josh

      Reply

  19. I picked up some coins at a yard sale yesterday. It had a collection of pennies starting in the 1930a up to 1990. Not every year is represented, but I do have some unique pieces at least by my standards. I had never known about the steel pennies from 1943. Now I have 3. But there are a few I would like to know more about. I have one from 1947 that looks like it could have been struck twice but I’m not sure. I will send pictures as soon as possible.

    Reply

  21. Hello to all, I found 11 . 1955 Wheaties for my collection today but this one in particular I need you to look at just you tell me if you can see anything on it the bottom of the E. and Liberty has something protruding out the bottom and a couple of the other letters look a little weird but I tried to get the best picture I could and thank you very much for all that you do

    Reply

  22. Hi josh, I was hoping you coulnd help me figure out what the deal with the “O” in this 2016 issued Jefferson nickel is. It’s the last “O” in Monticello on the reverse. I’m not very familiar with all die varieties & errors but this is a recent release and I haven’t heard of anybody discovering this yet

    Reply

    • Hi, Steve —

      There is definitely an anomaly with the “O,” and it appears mint-made. The question now is what type of error/die variety this may be. Given the coin is very new, it is hard to find any other information about this and frankly this is the first I’ve seen of this particular variety.

      The individual who might know about this possible new variety is a veteran numismatist named John Wexler. Here is more info on how to contact him: https://doubleddie.com/

      Good luck, and thank you for posting this great photo!

      Best,
      Josh

      Reply

      • Thanks for your consideration Josh, I’m really intrigued by this coin and am about to follow thru with your suggestion. Love your articles, keep up the good work

        Reply

        • Steve,

          I really appreciate your kind words and feedback! I hope the coin works out in your favor price wise!

          Good luck!
          Josh

          Reply

  23. Hi, Josh. This is another of the 55 wheat pennies and on the reverse I noticed the lettering was a little different size

    Reply

  24. Hello .I have a nother wheelie I would like you to look at Josh on every reverse the letters in ( Pivribus) the RIB is this caused by machine doubling ? And thanks again .

    Reply

    • Hi, David —

      What year is this coin? Based on the appearance of the edges in the doubling, I suspect machine doubling, but I want to rule out any possible varieties and thus need to know the coin’s year and mintmark, too, please.

      Thank you!
      Josh

      Reply

      • I’m sorry Josh, hi had told lee forgot about the date on it it to 1955 no mess up no matt mark I guess I go love and mikey pretty 5 today

        Reply

        • One more time .Hello
          Again, Here is 1948 wheat on the reverse between the wheat stock an the letter C .something is there it like the top layer iscome lose .And im seeing a copper colored letter there could you please give me your opinion on this and thanks again

          Reply

          • Hi, David —

            Indeed, the top layer of metal has been affected by corrosion. Unfortunately, that negatively impacts the value of this coin, which is now worth about 3 to 5 cents.

            Thank you for your question and great photos!
            Josh

  25. Hi Joshua – I’m new to Disqus and figure this probably isn’t the correct place to post this question, but I don’t know what I’m doing!

    I recently acquired a rather large amount of minted coins. Half canadian and half us and one set from new zealand. I’m really skeptical about going to a coin appraisal place – I hear a lot of differing reviews from all of the ones around me. I’ve made a list of the coins and was wondering if you’d take a peek and see if there are any worth getting looked at?
    I appreciate your time – and I would be willing to send pictures of any/all of them.
    Thanks!

    Reply

  26. Hello Josh..this is my first time posting here, but I’ve been following awhile and I’ve learned quite a bit from you, thank you. But I recently bought a roll of quarters and noticed this mark in the “S” in a Mississippi state quarter..then found it the same exact mark in another quarter of the same roll..is this a normal?

    Reply

    • Hello, Jf —

      This appears to be a die chip in the photo. Such pieces usually have a nominal premium of $2 to $5.

      Nice catch!
      Josh

      Reply

  27. Hello, I have a question about the 1955 wheatie if it’s machine double would that be considered a poor man’s double die ? I have been reading all the articles on D/D to make sure what I could call it is a poor man’s double die it’s ….Thank again . 1# Fan

    Reply

    • Hi, David!

      Thank you for your kind words about the site! If it is machine doubled then, yes indeed, you’re describing a 1955 poor man’s doubled die. While most machine-doubled coins have no extra value, there is a market for the 1955 poor mans cent, and that coin is generally worth 50 cents to $1.

      Best,
      Josh

      Reply

  28. Hello Josh. I have a 1977D it look like there something in words in god we trust would you have a look at this .an as always Thanks a lot . #1 Fan

    Reply

    • HI, David!

      I see what may be some light machine doubling; this wouldn’t add any value to the coin in this case. However, all pre-1982 Lincoln Memorial cents are worth holding aside for their copper value (worth about 2 cents each).

      Best,
      Josh

      Reply

  29. Hello josh, I have a 1992 penny that looks doubled just wondering if it’s a double die or just a double struck penny

    Reply

    • Hello, Robert —

      I don’t seem to see any signs of doubling based on what I’m looking at in the photos you uploaded? Where did you see the doubling?

      Thank you,
      Josh

      Reply

        • Hello, Robert —

          Thank you for letting me know. While there does appear to be some surface disruption there, I don’t seem to see any evidence of this coin being a doubled die.

          Keep checking your change!
          Josh

          Reply

  30. Hi Josh, I’m new here. I found two 1955 coins. One of them looks good and the other one has poor man double die on the last figure. I wanna make sure if it’s correct. Thanks

    Reply

    • Hello, Robert!

      Yes the 1955-S Lincoln cent appears to be in choice uncirculated condition and is worth around 25 to 30 cents or more, based on how nice the surfaces and strike are under 5X-10X magnification.

      The 1955 “poor man’s doubled die” obverse is not rare but nevertheless a fun coin to own; it is worth about $1 in average-circulated condition.

      Best,
      Josh

      Reply

  31. Hello josh ,I found a 1983p nickel I’m not sure if it is a doubled die or double strike and what would be the value of this coin any help would be appreciated .Thank you

    Reply

    • Hello, Robert —

      There is no listing in any variety database of a 1983-P doubled die Jefferson nickel. Looking at the anomaly in the area of LIBERTY and the date, I think this is a result of either machine doubling or die fatigue and would be worth only a nominal amount over face among those who collect such pieces.

      If you would be interested in submitting the coin for inspection, you might consider checking this link out: https://doubleddie.com/

      Good luck,
      Josh

      Reply

  32. Hello again, I have another 1992 penny I’m not sure about I know the first one you couldn’t see the doubling I hope this one you can help me with

    Reply

    • Hello, Robert —

      I’m taking a close look at the reverse especially and while there appear to be some hallmarks of a possible doubled die, I believe this coin exhibits more diangostics of machine doubling based on the edges of the doubled regions of the design, etc.

      Remember that even if this is a doubled die, it is neither a widely recognized nor widely collected coin and thus may be worth just a few dollars. Consider checking this page link out for die comparison to a recognized 1992 doubled die cent: https://doubleddie.com/700034.html

      Good luck,
      Josh

      Reply

  33. Hi, Josh, thanks for your patience. This time I bring a penny from 1937 p. The letter I(in God we) looks strange.

    Reply

    • Hi, Robert —

      This appears to be post-mint damage based on the surface diagnostics and would be worth only 5 to 10 cents.

      Best,
      Josh

      Reply

  34. Hi josh , thanks for all your help, I have a 2015 Homestead quarter that has a major die break,will this add any xtra value to the coin.

    Reply

    • Hmm… I am not finding much information (yet) on die breaks for this type as far as value, but that may just be due to its relatively newness. The value would depend solely on the demand for the coin. Such pieces, once they attain a collector following, could be worth from $3 to $5 or more.

      Definitely hang onto it for now,
      Josh

      Reply

  35. Hello josh , I have a 1975D nickel that is off center and the date has been affected by this ,is this just a damaged coin or does it give the coin any extra value? Thank you

    Reply

    • Hi, Robert!

      This is a bona fide error coin that appears off-center by approximately 5% to 8%. This is just at the point where the value reasonably kicks into the $1 to $3 range.

      Best,
      Josh

      Reply

  36. Hi josh, again I would like to thank you for all your time helping answer all my questions, this time I have 3 double die coins 1964,1972,1983.I do have a little knowledge about them but I would like to know you opinion ,the condition of the coins are not the best but are they worth much in these conditions

    Reply

  37. Hi Josh,I really need your help with this one,I have a 1880 O morgan dollar with some kind of markings on the obverse and reverse.Do have any idea what may have caused them.The last photo the leaf is missing some of its design.Thanks

    Reply

  38. We found this coin in an old shed at a abandoned farm. It is a 1984 coin, possibly a double die. It is not in mid condition, but it is still fairly readable. How much could this be worth?

    Reply

    • Hi, Kyler —

      The hole was made after the coin left the Mint; unfortunately the resolution of the photo isn’t high enough for me to see if your 1984 Lincoln cent is a doubled die.

      Please feel free to resend a clearer image and I’d be happy to reevaluate!

      Best,
      Josh

      Reply

  39. Hi, Doris!

    Thank you for the update on the nickel-sized penny. That’s why those in-hand inspections are always a good backup 🙂

    Yes, I do see some signs of doubling on the obverse, but it appears to be machine doubling because of the appearance of the secondary lettering. However, I urge you to hang onto this piece for a while and let’s see if there are any reports of doubled dies. The Harper’s Ferry quarter is only now making a widespread appearance in circulation and as more eyes look for die issues we might see a variety or two come out of this issue.

    You might also want to contact John Wexler, a die variety expert: https://doubleddie.com I believe he will say the same thing, but perhaps he may provide a different opinion…

    Good luck!
    Josh

    Reply

  40. Hello Josh I was wondering if you could look at this 1993 Penny on the date and tell me if this is machine https://uploads.disquscdn.com/images/fb3973b2107ca121806c8282d8744a02acc55f082cccc63cc1062169344b3bdc.jpg https://uploads.disquscdn.com/images/0f92eb342e0ce586f9b15ea31b7ee9ce0ab38b9f6ba2b6154375d34004aef257.jpg https://uploads.disquscdn.com/images/0f92eb342e0ce586f9b15ea31b7ee9ce0ab38b9f6ba2b6154375d34004aef257.jpg https://uploads.disquscdn.com/images/ee16ac04b910af90669c99cbc64133b4dbefc294a5c9f078940fb7b45ebe0b01.jpg doubling or what it is thank you

    Reply

  42. Hi Josh,
    Need your conclusion about this coin for me and help me how to make a tittle for each coin cuz I was planning to sell it. And here they are

    Reply

    • Hi, Walter —

      This actually appears to be a repunched mintmark. These are generally worth $3 to $5.

      Cool find!
      Josh

      Reply

      • Hi, Walter —

        Prior to 1990, mintmarks on U.S. coins were essentially hand-punched onto working dies, which stamp the design on a blank coin. Since 1990, mintmarks have been placed on the master dies, thus essentially automating the placement of mintmarks.

        I hope this info is helpful,
        Josh

        Reply

  45. I’ve been collecting coins off and on for a few years and just now started seriously collecting Kennedy Half Dollars. I’ve always like aura surrounding him so why not collect his coins as well. Anyways, I am also collecting the error coins as well. I need some help with this one. I’m pretty sure of what it is but it is not in the Cherrypickers’ Guide. I am an ANA Member and receive the Error Subscriptions but that just means I have probably missed something. Here is the picture. I believe it is a 1964-D (D/D/D). Please respond. Jerry https://uploads.disquscdn.com/images/f4315a2e55a66641fb95ad4da8aa5043691e1cbdc1edb8b76f80d54edd2e42a6.jpg

    Reply

  46. Hello Josh,

    I love your site, thanks so much for your postings on various topics. I am having a lot of trouble determining what may or may not be doubled die coins. I have been searching cent rolls lately (I just started this hobby, though) and I don’t know what to look for to determine true doubled die coins. Is the doubling that happens with true doubled die coins always obvious to the naked eye? Or, can it be very subtle and small, but nonetheless a valuable doubled die coin? I do use a small basic magnifying glass sometimes but it isn’t particularly powerful and doesn’t magnify that much. With cents, I always save cents that were minted in 1981 and earlier just for the copper content. But, I know that there are some doubled die coins like in 1983, 1984, 1995, and others which have some value, so I have been saving those just in case some have true doubling but I haven’t been able to see it. I hope I am explaining myself clearly here. Basically, I’m wondering how an amateur can detect true doubled die coins while roll hunting, or even just when looking through pocket change.

    Thanks for your help. Happy New Year.

    Marcus Hawkins

    Reply

    • Hello, Marcus —

      I really appreciate your kind remarks on the site. Congratulations on entering the hobby! I hope you’re enjoying it so far. There’s certainly lots to see and do in coin collecting, including looking for doubled die coins.

      What about them? Well, they can be either easy or hard to spot, based on the variety in question. For example, the 1955 double die cent is pretty hard to miss, with its clear doubling of the numerals in the date. But the 1984 doubled die? It’s rather difficult even for some attuned collectors to spot the doubling of Lincoln’s ear. Other times, coins that appear to be doubled dies aren’t actually doubled die coins at all, but rather double strike errors which are often worth little, if anything, over ordinary collector value.

      Sometimes the best way to learn in this hobby is through the use of visuals, and in the case of collecting doubled die coins, that’s the most convenient way to learn. Here are some links that could help you:

      Doubled Die U.S. Mint Errors: https://coinauctionshelp.com/doubledieminterror.html#.WH015iMrKb8
      Doubled Die Coins – Wexler Catalog: https://doubleddie.com/58222.html
      Doubled Die Coins Versus Other Doubling: https://www.coingalaxy.com/coininfo/doubling.html

      I hope these guides and images help you a bit. Please check back if you need more information or have other questions!

      Happy collecting,
      Josh

      Reply

      • Thanks so much for the links, Josh. I will be sure to read those over. What do you think about the 1992D “close AM” cent and the 1999 “wide AM” cent? Are those worth looking for too? Is it easy to spot them if you get one which is closer or wider than it’s supposed to be? (Would they need to be in un-circulated condition to be valuable?)
        Maybe I should get a more powerful magnifying glass too?

        Thanks,

        Marcus H.

        Reply

        • Hi, Marcus —

          The 1992-D Close AM and 1999 Wide AM cents are certainly worth looking for, but they’re really quite rare so check your change carefully but realize they don’t pop up very often at all. To avoid getting frustrated on focusing on any one or two coins or types of varieties, I’d probably expand the focus to include a range of varieties and errors, such as repunched mintmarks, missing mintmarks, die cracks, and other unusual findings that may be more obscure or not necessarily even worth very much but nonetheless are numismatically interesting.

          As for magnification devices, I’d recommend a 5X to 10X power coin loupe.

          Here’s more info that could help you:

          Coin Supplies: https://coins.thefuntimesguide.com/coin-collecting-supplies/
          CLose AM, Wide AM Cents: https://www.ebay.com/gds/So-what-exactly-is-a-Close-AM-and-Wide-AM-Cent-/10000000177207003/g.html

          Good luck!
          Josh

          Reply

    • Hi, Rick —

      Something about the strength (or lack thereof) in the middle reverse (tails) design suggests the apparent doubling may be a diagnostic of die wear. I do suggest having this coin examined by a professional in-hand to inspect the doubling at the top center of the reverse at different angles. I am pretty sure, however, this is a coin struck by an aging die and is not worth more than face value.

      Advice for finding a good coin dealer: https://coins.thefuntimesguide.com/coin_dealer/
      Nationwide searchable list of coin dealers: https://png.memberclicks.net/find-a-png-dealer

      Good luck,
      Josh

      Reply

    • Hi, Sharon —

      You may have something worthy of saving here. While the coin would definitely need to be inspected in-hand at various angles under magnification to confirm, it could be a grease strike-through. The value of such coins varies because each is pretty unique, but most are worth $10 or more.

      I hope this info is helpful!
      -Josh

      Reply

    • Hi, Tammy,

      I can see why this one stood out from the rest of the group! It looks like this poor Lincoln cent was abraded, damaged in such a way that it exposes the coin’s inner zinc core. I see signs of a possible cleaning or acid exposure, too. Given the post-Mint damage, this piece is worth face value.

      Thank you for your question and photos,
      Josh

      Reply

  52. My name is Tommy. I have a double die 1983 quarter and a few other odd balls what would be a value on the 1983

    Reply

    • Hi, Tommy —

      Would you please post a photo of your 1983 doubled die Washington quarter so I can be of further assistance on helping you track down its potential value?

      Thank you,
      Josh

      Reply

    • Hi, Jason —

      Very interesting… Is the Jefferson image incuse (going into the coin) or reliefed (standing up from the surface)? I’m inclined to suggest seeing if this is the work of a creative epoxy imprint, something which could be verified by testing to see if acetone removes the imprint.

      Hmmm…. I look forward to finding out any more info you can kindly provide on this one as far as design details, etc. We’ll figure this out…

      Thanks!
      Josh

      Reply

      • I’m hesitant to clean it with acetone, I’ve watched enough pawn stars to know that cleaning a coin can devalue it :), but if it won’t damage it I can try it. I tried taking some better side pics but I’m not sure is they’ll help much but as you might be able to see from the side view there’s isn’t the normal lip around the edge like a normal coin on the back side. I ran my finger nail across and I can feel that it’s indented and not raised.

        Should I take it into a local coin shop to have them take a better look?

        https://uploads.disquscdn.com/images/615392b6cfdaf3c6d416be78829ad4a3534a782dc1b833c3d19b01b0e329d12a.jpg
        https://uploads.disquscdn.com/images/8e7099315da1a1b7229ff298d5a527925db3d21ad713792d9d4b4ce4e1e7ec76.jpg

        Reply

        • Hi, Jason —

          I’m glad to hear you’re concerned about cleaning it. Thankfully, acetone is a “safe” way to remove residue from coins without harming their surfaces and is considered a conservation solvent. The KEY is to use straight acetone and not formulated nail polish remover, which contains other chemicals that may damage your coins.

          Good luck!
          Josh

          Reply

          • You were right, it was a glue layer. I took it into a coin shop and had them take a look and he said the same thing so I took it home and soaked it in some acetone and the glue layer fell off. Thanks for taking a look at it, next time I find something like this I’ll look a little closer.

          • Hello, Jason!

            Thank you for the update on this… It nevertheless was an eye-popping piece — and now you’ve learned something for the future, too.

            Cheers!
            Josh

        • As for taking the coin to a coin shop, it wouldn’t hurt and by all means do so for a good, in-hand second opinion. But the fact you mention the design elements are indented suggests the extra imprint was from another coin whose image was somehow embedded upon the host coin.

          Reply

  54. Hello how are you í got a nickel 2006 D but i os diferent to another coins has maks in all the edge https://uploads.disquscdn.com/images/3959e357aa47694a9042abc1ff0bdc21b54a37199bad44402a4416e88b0497ef.jpg https://uploads.disquscdn.com/images/1ce33f30fa88ecf582cd40cf05056c4fcef0c3f0d9c41436e2ba7201c44f624a.jpg https://uploads.disquscdn.com/images/329273902a3b488a9882fa6d171acf620a7daeba6795ead7cab99c70f83cda6a.jpg https://uploads.disquscdn.com/images/dabed916a45fd305fbc4dc6afc598c855b998b51dc3c9218a73522ad842ee874.jpg https://uploads.disquscdn.com/images/0229db91b671af66a3402f81812d4cb9962aa3f99fa1c2e12970d55b11bc2b0d.jpg

    Reply

    • Hi, Pedro —

      I’m afraid your 2006-D Jefferson nickel has extensive edge post-Mint damage, This piece is worth face value.

      Best,
      Josh

      Reply

  56. Hello Joshua,
    https://uploads.disquscdn.com/i https://uploads.disquscdn.com/images/ccfdaa20dff7a3bc44f3cdd456d82eee2952a9f7892fd14c89e56d7c2eba025d.jpg https://uploads.disquscdn.com/images/2c11c869626f63f908ea2d25bf3eb670b5082048f610cca0550e3adb18fd7567.jpg https://uploads.disquscdn.com/images/c4097e71bd7592da23d37842781ce9f21868a97c192a30f951ff2713a70572cb.jpg
    https://uploads.disquscdn.com/images/6f5d99bbf11e1899c4c7ec7c4c93434cadba58580b9af9d805dd2a54131bad98.jpg
    https://uploads.disquscdn.com/images/c4097e71bd7592da23d37842781ce9f21868a97c192a30f951ff2713a70572cb.jpg https://uploads.disquscdn.com/images/26699271ff8cdab3277409f9e4f2b4e2f5b46609a5cd87a46d636631202c3cc2.jpg https://uploads.disquscdn.com/images/73d1e2fa17167a11da569c212a13977a40150ffc9ce070fbddf8d4f4ec1d055c.jpg I was reading up on double die coins and realized I have couple of 1969-S Lincoln penny’s.

    Reply

  57. I have a 1958 D wheat penny double die with numbers shown in the back ground I think it a coin struck on top of another coin

    Reply

    • Hi, Stella Marie —

      I’m afraid this photo is too blurry to make anything out. I see this is an uncirculated Lincoln cent, but I can’t tell what year in the photo.

      Please upload a clearer image if you can. Thanks!
      Josh

      Reply

    • Hi, Tammy —

      This coin has experienced a tremendous amount of post-Mint wear. Whether it’s natural or intentional is hard to say, but the the coloration suggests environmental damage and the pitting on the reverse indicates the coin was exposed to caustic fumes or acids. At any rate, while this coin is worth face value, it’s certainly worth holding aside as a circulation curiosity.

      Interesting find,
      Josh

      Reply

    • Hi, Diane!

      Yes, this piece is off-center by about 2% — not really enough to add value to the coin from that standpoint but still technically an error. I do see doubling on this coin, too, but from what I see in the image this is machine doubling due to strike shift — essentially the coin was moved as the coin was being struck by the die, causing a doubled appearance. This is pretty common among Lincoln cents of the 1950s, thus not really a valuable error. I’d still hold the coin aside though, especially should you decide to sell it, you might find someone willing to pay a small (50 cents to $1) premium for it.

      Best wishes,
      Josh

      Reply

  62. Yes I have a 1972 d double die penny n also a couple other coins. 1983 d quarter,1939 nickel,68 & 93 d dimes. I believe the penny is double die,it’s different for sure. It’s pretty good shape. Do any of these have any value? Kimberly

    Reply

    • Hi, Kimberly —

      Assuming you have an authentic 1972 doubled die, then yes — there is some significant value there. The 1983-D Washington quarter is really only valuable if it has only light wear or is uncirculated, and the 1939 nickel is worth 10 to 20 cents if worn. Value-wise, there is nothing special about regular, worn business-strike Roosevelt dimes made since 1965 unless they have errors or varieties.

      Here’s more info on 1972 penny values: https://coins.thefuntimesguide.com/1972-penny-value/
      And more info on 1983 Washington quarters: https://coins.thefuntimesguide.com/clad-washington-quarters-value/

      Please upload clear photos of your 1968 and 1993-D Roosevelt dimes and I’ll be glad to assist further and see what might be going on with those.

      Thanks,
      Josh

      Reply

  63. I have this 1941 Nickle that appears to have extra material on the OBVERSE behind the head towards the top is this an error

    Reply

    • Hi, Joshua —

      I am NOT an authentication service but I’ll always give my opinion. Authenticity is a tough call to make in the vacuum of not knowing a coin’s weight or size. Yours should weigh at about 3.11 grams and measure 19 millimeters in diameter. It generally looks ok. It appears to just be a nice, higher-end uncirculated piece — something you don’t always see in circulation or rolls anymore with 1972 pennies. High-end Lincoln cents grading MS67 or higher are often worthy of certifying.

      Best wishes,
      Josh

      Reply

    • Hi, Jensen —

      Both of these 1917 Lincoln pennies seem to have a decent amount of detail remaining. Lighting is always an issue with photos and thus partly why I don’t provide opinions on grades by photo here. Also proving difficult to determine here is color. While the piece on the left appears to have original, chocolate brown surfaces, there are some signatures on the piece on the right that it may have light surface corrosion (a slightly splotchy reddish tinge in some areas, verdigris inside the “U” of “TRUST,” etc.). I’m inclined to answer your question by indeed saying there are quality differences here.

      Hope this helps,
      Josh

      Reply

  70. Hello, I am new to coin collecting but have fallen in love with it. I just got a Microscope for coins. I was checking out a 2112 D Penny to my shock every letter on the penny is double die. The only thing that is not is the date and the D. The penny is in brand new condition. I am not sure what I have with this penny?? Help!! Nadine

    Reply

  72. hello i have a 1920 one cent usa that the (of) is double letter like this (off) america so idk if this cent have a good value im still new to coin

    Reply

    • Hi, Marc —

      Would you please send a closeup of the coin, including and most especially the area of the doubled die (“OF”?).

      Thank you,
      Josh

      Reply

  74. and doublie dies are like a letter on top of one or printed twice while machine doubling is more like a blurry letter.

    Reply

    • Sort of… In the case of doubled dies, the doubling (it doesn’t have to be just a letter) will be about as pronounced as the primary design element, whereas machine doubling usually looks less pronounced and may nearly appear to have been smeared down and away from the original design. Hope that makes sense!

      Reply

    • Hi, Cee Cee —

      Based on these images it appears this coin exhibits machine doubling, which will show the doubled elements (such as the lettering) smearing out and away from the primary design elements — not notched, as is more common on doubled dies.

      The key diagnostic on this piece is the apparent doubling in the “S” mintmark, which would NOT be doubled if it were a doubled die, because it was hand punched onto the die after the hubbing process (which is where doubled dies are born).

      Thank you for reaching out,
      Josh

      Reply

    • Hi, RS —

      Interesting find! The doubling appears to emanate from the design nearly in the form of a smear out and away from the primary elements. Given this, and the fact it is seen on both the obverse and reverse, my call is machine doubling. But it may be worth sending these images to the die attribution experts at CONECA or Variety Vista for a second opinion.

      Best,
      Josh

      Reply

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