Imagine checking your change and finding a penny worth half a million dollars. 🤑 That’s the story behind the mysterious 1984 “WESTRON” Lincoln Cent, one of the rarest modern mint errors ever discovered.
Only two confirmed examples exist, making it a true holy grail for collectors. Here’s everything you need to know.
🏆 Why the 1984 “WESTRON” Penny Is Worth $500,000+
- Misprint Error – The word “LIBERTY” was replaced with “WESTRON”
- Extreme Rarity – Only two known examples in the world
- Historic Year – 1984 was a transitional time for minting experiments
- Auction Record – A PCGS MS65+ Red sold for $500,000
🔍 How to Identify a Genuine “WESTRON” Penny
Obverse (Front)
- “WESTRON” appears instead of “LIBERTY”
- Date must read 1984 – no other year carries this error
Physical Specs
- Weight: 2.5g (standard zinc-plated copper)
- Edge: Smooth (no reeding)
⚡ Quick Authentication Checklist
✅ Legend Test: Must clearly spell “WESTRON”
✅ Date Check: Only 1984 applies
✅ Lettering: Should appear struck into the coin (not carved or added)
📈 Current 2024 Value Guide
| Grade | 2020 Value | 2024 Value |
|---|---|---|
| Circulated | $100,000 | $250,000 |
| MS63 RD | $300,000 | $400,000 |
| MS65+ RD | $450,000 | $500,000+ |
🚨 Counterfeit Warning Signs
- Laser-engraved text – looks grainy under magnification
- Glued-on letters – adhesive dissolves in acetone
- Wrong composition – must match zinc-plated copper (2.5g)
🏭 The Mystery Behind the Error
- Theorized Cause: An experimental die possibly linked to West Point Mint testing
- Known Examples:
- MS65+ RD – Private collection
- AU-55 – Found in a 2016 Arkansas parking lot
💬 “I thought it was a toy coin until NGC verified it!” — Arkansas worker who discovered the AU-55 example
📌 What to Do If You Think You Found One
- 🧤 Handle with cotton gloves only (never clean).
- 📸 Take macro photos under LED light.
- 📜 Submit to PCGS under “Mint Error” service.
- 📦 Insure for $500,000+ before shipping.
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