The 1955 Doubled Die Lincoln : Cent is one of the most well-known and sought-after error coins in the history of American numismatics. To this day, it remains a “holy grail” for many collectors due to its dramatic visual error, limited quantity, and historical significance. Even circulated versions of the coin can sell for thousands of dollars.
But what exactly makes the 1955 doubled die penny so special?
The 1955 Doubled Die Lincoln Error That Made History
In 1955, a minting mistake at the Philadelphia Mint created a batch of Lincoln cents where the date and parts of the lettering on the obverse (front) of the coin appear doubled. This doubling is particularly bold and clearly visible to the naked eye — especially in the words “LIBERTY”, “IN GOD WE TRUST”, and the date “1955”.
This wasn’t just a minor misalignment. It was a true doubled die error, caused when the die (the metal stamp used to strike coins) was improperly manufactured. Instead of one clean imprint on the die during creation, the hub (which imprints the design onto the die) struck it twice but was slightly misaligned the second time.
The result? Every coin struck by that flawed die had strong, unmistakable doubling.
How Many Exist?
It’s estimated that 20,000 to 24,000 of these error pennies were accidentally mixed with regular 1955 cents and entered circulation before the mistake was discovered. Since they weren’t pulled from distribution, many ended up in the hands of the public — especially in cigarette packs sold through vending machines at the time, where they were often used as change.
Today, about 10,000 to 15,000 examples are believed to still exist, with varying degrees of wear and condition.
What Is1955 Doubled Die Lincoln Worth?
As of 2025, the value of a 1955 Doubled Die Lincoln Cent depends on its condition:
Circulated condition: $1,000 – $2,500+
Uncirculated (Mint State): $5,000 – $20,000+
Highest-grade certified examples: Can exceed $50,000 at auction
Coins graded by professional services such as PCGS or NGC fetch higher prices, especially when authenticated as genuine doubled dies.
How to Spot a Genuine 1955 Doubled Die Cent
It’s crucial to avoid confusing the true 1955 doubled die cent with common machine doubling — a much less valuable minting imperfection.
Here’s what to look for in a genuine piece:
Strong, clear doubling of the entire date (1955).
Bold doubling of LIBERTY and IN GOD WE TRUST.
No doubling on the reverse (tails) side — the error is only on the front.
Look for wear patterns consistent with regular circulation, unless it’s a mint state example.
1955 Doubled Die Lincoln Beware of Fakes
Due to its high value and popularity, the 1955 doubled die cent has been widely counterfeited. Some fakes are made using altered coins or simulated doubling. Only buy from reputable dealers or have the coin authenticated before purchase or sale.
Conclusion
The 1955 Doubled Die Lincoln Cent is more than just a coin — it’s a numismatic legend. Its dramatic error, fascinating backstory, and high value make it one of the most iconic collectible coins in the United States. Whether you’re a seasoned coin collector or a curious beginner, spotting one of these in the wild would be the find of a lifetime
