Imagine pulling a shiny new 2024 penny from your pocket, flipping it over, and spotting a strange little line across Lincoln’s face. Most people wouldn’t think twice — but in one recent auction, that tiny flaw turned a 1¢ coin into a $200+ collectible jackpot.
💥 What Is a Strikethrough Error?
A strikethrough error happens when something — like lint, thread, grease, or even a tiny shaving of metal — sneaks between the die and the coin blank during minting. The object leaves a permanent impression on the coin’s surface, making it look unusual or “off.”
That’s exactly what happened with this 2024 penny. A faint line appeared across Lincoln’s portrait — and because it was a genuine mint error, collectors lined up to bid big.
🧐 Why a Small Line Made Big Money
You might be thinking: “It’s just a scratch — why would anyone pay hundreds?” Here’s the secret:
✅ It’s authentic mint damage, not wear or scratches from circulation.
✅ Error coins on modern dates (2020s) are harder to come by, so demand is strong.
✅ Each strikethrough is unique — no two look exactly alike.
✅ With expert certification, even tiny flaws become auction-worthy treasures.
In short: collectors crave originality. A 2024 penny like this isn’t just spare change — it’s a one-of-a-kind misprint from the U.S. Mint.
🔍 How to Spot One in Your Pocket Change
Not all odd-looking pennies are valuable, but here’s what to check:
- Look for lines, dents, or shapes pressed into the coin that don’t belong.
- Examine Lincoln’s face, beard, and jacket — subtle flaws often appear here.
- Use a magnifying glass or coin loupe to pick up faint details.
- Compare your coin with verified examples on sites like PCGS.com or NGCcoin.com.
💰 How to Cash In If You Find One
Think you’ve struck gold (well, copper-plated zinc)? Here’s your game plan:
- Don’t clean it — cleaning destroys value.
- Submit it to PCGS or NGC for authentication.
- Sell through trusted marketplaces:
- Heritage Auctions
- GreatCollections
- eBay (certified coins only)
- Coin shows & dealer networks
🧭 Final Takeaway
Most 2024 pennies are only worth one cent — but if yours has a rare mint error, it could be worth hundreds overnight. All it takes is a careful eye and a little curiosity.
So next time you dump your change in a jar, pause. That tiny line or odd mark might just be your next $200 surprise.
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