Rare 1955 Double Die Penny: Why It Matters
The 1955 double die penny is one of the most recognized U.S. mint errors. It shows clear doubling on Lincoln’s profile and the date, caused during hubbing at the mint.
Because of its visual appeal and limited supply in high grades, this error can command premiums. In exceptional condition, experts say it could reach prices far above typical cent values.
How to Spot a 1955 Double Die Penny
Identification is the first step before any sale or grading. Use a loupe or magnifying glass and compare the coin to verified images.
- Look for doubling on the date and the word LIBERTY.
- Check Lincoln’s cheek and jawline for doubled outlines.
- Confirm the doubling is on the coin’s devices, not a post-strike scratch or die chip.
Common Mistakes to Avoid
Wear, scratches, or cleaning marks can mimic doubling. Always examine the coin under good light and at 5x–10x magnification.
If unsure, photograph the coin and compare it to reputable auction or grading service references.
The 1955 doubled die was created when a die was accidentally impressed twice with misalignment between hubbings. This is called a hub doubling error and is different from machine doubling.
Top Five Coins to Watch
Beyond the 1955 doubled die penny, these coins are notable for rarity, collector interest, and value potential.
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1955 Double Die Penny
Why watch: High collector demand for properly attributed examples and top grades. What to look for: strong doubling on the date and LIBERTY, sharp strike, original surfaces.
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1909-S VDB Lincoln Cent
Why watch: Early Lincoln cents with designer initials VDB are scarce, especially in higher grades. What to look for: bold VDB initials at the reverse lower rim and original red color on copper examples.
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1937-D Three Leg Buffalo Nickel
Why watch: Minting overpolishing removed one leg on the reverse, creating a striking variety. What to look for: missing leg on the bison and strong mintmark detail.
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1913 Liberty Head Nickel
Why watch: Extremely rare, with very few confirmed examples. What to look for: authentication is critical and must include strong provenance and certified grading.
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1804 Silver Dollar
Why watch: One of the most famous and valuable U.S. coins. What to look for: thorough documentation and provenance, plus certification by a top grading service.
Grading and Authentication Steps
A clear path helps sellers and buyers realize top prices. Follow a consistent process to protect value and ensure trust.
- Research comparable sales from major auction houses.
- Have the coin professionally graded by PCGS or NGC.
- Document provenance: receipts, previous auction lots, or prior certifications.
- Use high-resolution photos for online listings and insurance records.
Why Grading Matters
Grading assigns a standardized numeric grade and helps distinguish authentic doubled dies from damage or post-strike issues. High grades (MS65 and above for cents) can increase value exponentially.
Practical Selling Tips for a Rare 1955 Double Die Penny
If you believe you own a 1955 doubled die, take careful steps to preserve value before selling.
- Do not clean the coin; cleaning reduces value.
- Store in a stable, low-humidity environment in inert holders.
- Get a professional authentication and grade before public sale.
- Consider specialists or auction houses with numismatic expertise.
Where to Sell
Top options include major auction houses, reputable dealers, or specialist numismatic marketplaces. Each channel has tradeoffs between exposure, fees, and buyer trust.
Small Real World Example
A hobbyist found an unusual Lincoln cent among circulation coins and suspected doubling. They photographed the coin and reached out to a local coin club for advice.
After sending the coin to a grading service, the piece was certified as a genuine doubled die and listed at a specialized auction. The seller learned that proper documentation and grade were key to attracting serious bidders.
Final Checklist Before Listing
- Confirm doubling vs damage with magnification.
- Obtain grading and certification from a top service.
- Document provenance and high-quality photos.
- Choose the right sales channel: auction for top exposure, dealer for speed.
Conclusion
The rare 1955 double die penny is a headline-grabbing variety that can command strong prices in the right condition. Careful identification, professional grading, and documented provenance are the most important factors for realizing top value.
Watch the top five coins listed here if you collect or invest in rarities, and always follow best practices for authentication and sale.