$122,500 Lincoln Penny Error
🪙 Think a Penny Is Only Worth One Cent? Think Again.
Most people overlook Lincoln pennies from the 1980s and 1990s. However, recent numismatic discoveries prove that certain error coins from 1982–1998 are worth tens of thousands of dollars — and in rare cases, over $122,500.
A detailed breakdown shared by NUMISMATICS HUB highlights how small minting mistakes turned ordinary pennies into major collector treasures. Let’s review the most valuable examples and show you exactly what to look for 👇
🔍 Rare Lincoln Pennies From 1982–1998 Worth Serious Money
🪙 1️⃣ 1984 Doubled Ear Lincoln Penny — Worth $45,000 to $110,000
One of the most famous modern error coins, the 1984 Doubled Ear penny, displays a clear second ear beneath Lincoln’s main ear 👂.
🔎 How to Identify It:
- ✅ Visible doubling on Lincoln’s ear
- ✅ Raised, rounded doubling (not flat)
- ✅ Strong strike and sharp details
- ✅ No damage or tooling marks
💡 This error was created during die production, making it a true doubled die.
💰 Market Value:
- High-grade examples have sold between $45,000 and $110,000
- Lower grades still command five-figure prices
🪙 2️⃣ 1998-D “Wide AM” Lincoln Penny — Worth $21,000 to $90,000
This rare variety comes from the Denver Mint, but the secret is on the reverse (back).
👀 What Makes It Special:
- Look at “AMERICA”
- The A and M are spaced wider apart than normal
- Coin was struck using a proof-style reverse die
- Features a “D” mint mark
💰 Market Value:
- Circulated examples: $21,000+
- Mint State coins: Up to $90,000
📌 Many people miss this because they never check the reverse.
🪙 3️⃣ 1987-D Error Pennies — Worth Up to $122,500
The Denver Mint produced several extreme error pennies in 1987, some of which are among the most valuable modern Lincoln cents ever sold.
⚡ Known Errors Include:
- Double Die Obverse
🔸 Doubling on letters and Lincoln’s features
🔸 One example sold for over $64,000 - Wrong Planchet Error
🔸 Penny struck on a dime planchet
🔸 One confirmed sale reached $122,500
💡 These errors are exceptionally rare but fully authenticated examples exist.
🧭 Step-by-Step: How to Check Your Pennies Like a Collector
🔍 Step 1: Use Magnification
Check:
- Date
- LIBERTY
- Lincoln’s ear
- Letter spacing on the reverse
🏛️ Step 2: Check the Mint Mark
Located below the date:
- “D” = Denver
- Missing or unusual mint marks can matter
⚖️ Step 3: Weigh the Coin
Wrong planchet errors often weigh incorrectly.
🚫 Step 4: Never Clean the Coin
Cleaning can destroy up to 90% of value instantly.
📦 Step 5: Authenticate Before Selling
Always submit valuable finds to:
- PCGS
- NGC
Certified coins bring the highest prices.
💎 Why These Pennies Are So Valuable
✔️ Genuine minting errors
✔️ Limited number known
✔️ Strong collector demand
✔️ Easily identifiable with the right knowledge
Even modern pennies can become five- and six-figure coins when the right mistake occurs.
💬 Final Thoughts: Always Look Twice at Your Change
The biggest mistake collectors make is assuming modern pennies are worthless.
If you ever spot:
- A 1984 doubled ear
- A 1998-D Wide AM
- A 1987-D error
You could be holding a small copper coin worth up to $122,500 💰🪙
Before you spend that penny… take a closer look.
Leave a Reply