Lincoln pennies are a staple of American coin collecting. Some common dates and error types can be worth far more than face value. This guide explains the top 10 Lincoln penny errors, how to spot them, and next steps if you find one.
Top 10 Lincoln Penny Errors
1. 1955 Doubled Die Obverse Lincoln Penny Error
This is one of the best known and most collectible Lincoln penny errors. The doubling appears on LINCOLN, the date, and the motto on the obverse. Collectors look for clear, strong doubling rather than light doubling.
How to check: use 10x loupe, inspect letters and date for pronounced doubling. Value depends heavily on grade and strike quality.
2. 1943 Bronze Lincoln Penny Error
During World War II the Mint switched to steel planchets. A few 1943 pennies were accidentally struck on bronze planchets from other years. These are extremely rare and command high prices at auction.
How to check: bronze color, magnetic test should be negative, and weight consistent with copper cents. Professional authentication is essential.
3. 1944 Steel or Wrong Planchet Lincoln Penny Error
Some 1944 cents were struck on leftover steel planchets. These examples are rare and valuable. They look silver-gray and are magnetic.
How to check: color, magnetism, and die marks consistent with 1944 varieties. Authentication by a grading service is recommended.
4. 1909 S VDB Lincoln Penny Variety
While technically a mint variety rather than an error, the 1909 S VDB is a key date for Lincoln cents. The VDB initials on the reverse make this issue collectible and valuable in high grades.
How to check: look for the VDB initials at the base of the reverse and the S mint mark. Condition matters more than the presence of VDB.
5. Doubled Die Obverse Varieties Other Than 1955
Many Lincoln cents show doubled die obverse varieties in other years. Some dates have low population examples that are worth collecting. Always compare to reference photos from trusted sources.
How to check: name the year, photograph the coin under magnification, and compare to known DDO guides.
6. Off Center Strike Lincoln Penny Error
Off center strikes occur when the planchet shifts before the strike. Partial designs with missing features can be valuable, especially when more than 20 percent of the design is absent.
How to check: measure the missing area and note whether design elements are truncated cleanly. Severe off center strikes sell better than minor ones.
7. Clipped Planchet Lincoln Penny Error
A clipped planchet results from a planchet that was not cut fully. These produce crescent-shaped missing sections and are common enough to be collectible but rare in high grades.
How to check: inspect the rim for a smooth clipped curve and look for no die damage on the clip edge.
8. Broadstruck and Misaligned Collar Lincoln Penny Error
When the retaining collar fails during striking, the coin spreads out and the rim is weak or missing. These broadstruck coins have a larger diameter and a soft rim appearance.
How to check: measure diameter and compare to a normal cent. Broadstruck coins with full design and no clipping attract collectors.
9. Die Breaks and Cuds on Lincoln Pennies
Die breaks produce raised lines or blobs on the coin where the die surface cracked. A large die break called a cud can add value, especially when prominent and on common dates.
How to check: look for raised metal islands or lines that are not part of the design. Photograph and compare to die crack galleries.
10. Mule and Wrong Planchet Errors
Mules are coins struck with mismatched obverse and reverse dies. Wrong planchet errors are coins struck on the wrong metal. Both are rare and highly sought after when genuine.
How to check: strong photographic evidence and third party authentication are required before listing or selling.
How to Authenticate and Value Lincoln Penny Errors
Authentication separates true rarities from lookalikes. Use a combination of hands-on inspection and professional services. Grading companies provide certified opinions that increase buyer confidence.
Key steps:
- Use a 10x loupe or microscope to inspect doubling, die breaks, and planchet details.
- Run a magnet test for suspected steel cents.
- Weigh the coin to check for copper vs steel standards.
- Document findings with high-resolution photos and compare to reference databases.
Practical Tips for Sellers and Buyers
When you think you have a rare Lincoln penny error, keep it safe in a flip or capsule. Avoid cleaning or polishing — that reduces value. For significant finds, submit the coin to an established grading service.
For buyers, insist on certified examples for high-value purchases and ask for provenance when possible.
Case Study: A Shoebox Find
A collector found a single 1943-looking cent in a jar of mixed coins. At first glance it resembled the common steel 1943 cent, but it was non-magnetic and copper colored. After professional authentication the coin was confirmed as a bronze 1943 error and sold through auction to a specialist for a seven figure price.
Lesson learned: routine inspection of known key years and mintmarks can uncover extraordinary value.
Final Steps If You Find an Error
1. Stop handling the coin and place it in a protective holder. 2. Photograph the coin with a magnified closeup. 3. Consult reference books or online databases. 4. If the coin appears significant, submit it for professional authentication and grading.
With care and the right verification you could turn a pocket change curiosity into a valuable collectible.