A seemingly ordinary fishing trip led to an extraordinary find when a man discovered a rare 1972 Doubled Die Penny tucked away in an old fishing vest. Unaware of its significance at first, the finder later learned it was a coveted error coin—sparking a bidding war that ended with the coin selling for $25,000.
This real-life discovery has reignited interest in error coins, showing that valuable treasures might be hiding in the most unexpected places.
What Makes the 1972 Doubled Die Penny So Valuable?
The 1972 Doubled Die Obverse (DDO) penny is one of the most famous error coins in U.S. history. Its value lies in the minting mistake where the die struck the coin twice, resulting in a noticeable doubling effect, especially visible on:
- “IN GOD WE TRUST”
- “LIBERTY”
- The date “1972”
This error only occurred in a limited number of coins struck at the Philadelphia Mint (no mint mark), making authentic examples rare and highly collectible—especially in uncirculated condition.
Value Based on Condition
While hundreds of thousands were minted, only a small percentage survive in collectible condition. Value dramatically increases for well-preserved specimens.
Value Breakdown by Condition
| Condition/Grade | Estimated Market Value (USD) |
|---|---|
| Good (G-4) | $200 – $300 |
| Very Fine (VF-20) | $800 – $1,200 |
| Extremely Fine (EF-40) | $1,500 – $3,000 |
| About Uncirculated (AU50) | $3,500 – $4,500 |
| Mint State (MS65-67) | $6,000 – $25,000+ |
The coin discovered in the fishing vest was remarkably well-preserved, grading near MS67. Its crisp doubling and clean surfaces helped drive the auction price up to $25,000.
How to Spot a Real 1972 Doubled Die Penny
Collectors and curious coin owners should know how to identify a genuine example:
- Doubling Location: Look closely at the letters in LIBERTY, IN GOD WE TRUST, and the numerals in 1972.
- No Mint Mark: These coins were struck at the Philadelphia Mint and should not have a mint mark.
- Weight: The coin should weigh approximately 3.11 grams and be made of 95% copper.
To determine authenticity, it’s always best to avoid cleaning the coin and consult with a professional grading service.
Collecting Trends & Growing Demand
Over the years, the 1972 Doubled Die Penny has grown in popularity among collectors due to its:
- Historical minting error
- Eye-catching visual doubling
- Increasing rarity in high grades
In recent years, coins like 1972 Doubled Die Penny have reached all-time high prices. Many collectors are now willing to pay a premium for verified, uncirculated examples. This fishing vest find is a perfect example of a coin’s story boosting its value—especially when it’s attached to a compelling narrative and pristine condition.
The Bidding War
Once the coin was authenticated and graded, it was put up for auction, where multiple bidders competed over several rounds. With high interest from both private collectors and institutions, the final price reached $25,000—well above the expected market value for its grade.
Auction participants praised the coin not just for its condition, but for the rarity of its backstory. It’s not every day that a nationally significant coin emerges from the pocket of a fishing vest.
The story of a 1972 Doubled Die Penny found in an old fishing vest and sold for $25,000 reminds us that forgotten items can hold extraordinary worth. Whether you’re a seasoned collector or a casual enthusiast, this discovery proves it’s worth checking your change—and even your pockets.
What’s hiding in your old clothes might just be worth a small fortune.
FAQs
How rare is the 1972 Doubled Die Penny?
While originally several hundred thousand were minted, high-grade examples are scarce, and many have been lost or circulated heavily.
Where should I look for valuable error coins at home?
Check old wallets, coin jars, safe boxes, inherited belongings, or unused clothing—especially vintage pockets like this fishing vest.
Can I sell a coin like this without grading it?
You can, but professional grading is strongly recommended to maximize value and ensure buyer confidence.