In an extraordinary twist of fate, a rare 1955 Doubled Die Penny was discovered tucked away in a grandmother’s old recipe book.
This unassuming coin, long forgotten amidst handwritten culinary notes, recently fetched an astonishing $110,000 at auction, captivating numismatists and casual collectors alike.
The 1955 Doubled Die Penny: A Numismatic Marvel
The 1955 Doubled Die Penny stands as one of the most celebrated mint errors in U.S. coinage history. The error occurred during the minting process at the Philadelphia Mint, where the coin’s obverse die was struck twice, slightly misaligned.
This resulted in a noticeable doubling of the inscriptions “IN GOD WE TRUST,” “LIBERTY,” and the date “1955”, visible even to the naked eye.
Approximately 20,000 to 24,000 of these error coins were released into circulation before the mistake was identified. Today, it’s estimated that only 3,000 to 4,000 survive, with a mere fraction in uncirculated condition.
A Hidden Gem in a Recipe Book
The recent discovery of this rare penny in a grandmother’s recipe book underscores the unpredictable nature of numismatic finds. The coin, preserved inadvertently for decades, remained in exceptional condition, contributing to its high auction value.
Such finds highlight the importance of examining everyday items, as treasures can often be hidden in plain sight.
Auction Highlights
The coin’s journey culminated in a record-setting auction where it achieved a sale price of $110,000.
Graded MS-65+ RD by the Professional Coin Grading Service (PCGS) and approved by the Certified Acceptance Corporation (CAC), this specimen is among the finest known examples of the 1955 Doubled Die Penny.
Its pristine condition and vibrant red coloration significantly enhanced its desirability among collectors.
Understanding Coin Grading and Value
The value of a 1955 Doubled Die Penny is heavily influenced by its condition and color designation:
| Grade | Color Designation | Estimated Value |
|---|---|---|
| Extra Fine (XF) | Brown (BN) | $1,000 – $2,000 |
| About Uncirculated (AU) | Red-Brown (RB) | $2,000 – $5,000 |
| Mint State 63 (MS63) | Red (RD) | $5,000 – $15,000 |
| Mint State 65+ (MS65+) | Red (RD) | Up to $110,000 |
Key Factors Influencing Value:
- Grade: Indicates the coin’s condition, with higher grades signifying better preservation.
- Color Designation: Reflects the coin’s surface color, with red (RD) being the most sought after due to its original mint luster.
- Rarity: The limited number of surviving specimens, especially in high grades, drives up demand and value.
Identifying a Genuine 1955 Doubled Die Penny
To determine if a 1955 penny is the coveted doubled die variety:
- Doubling: Look for clear doubling on the obverse inscriptions and date.
- Mint Mark: Authentic 1955 Doubled Die Pennies were minted in Philadelphia and lack a mint mark.
- Weight: The coin should weigh approximately 3.11 grams.
- Professional Grading: For accurate assessment and valuation, consider submitting the coin to a reputable grading service like PCGS or NGC.
The serendipitous discovery of a 1955 Doubled Die Penny in a grandmother’s recipe book serves as a compelling reminder of the hidden treasures that may reside in our everyday possessions.
This remarkable find not only brought significant financial gain but also reignited interest in coin collecting and the fascinating stories behind these small pieces of history.
FAQs
How can I tell if my 1955 penny is the doubled die variety?
Examine the obverse of the coin for noticeable doubling on the inscriptions “IN GOD WE TRUST,” “LIBERTY,” and the date “1955.” The doubling should be clear and distinct, not a result of wear or damage.
What makes the red (RD) designation more valuable?
The red (RD) designation indicates that the coin has retained its original mint luster and coloration, making it more appealing to collectors and thus more valuable than brown (BN) or red-brown (RB) counterparts.
Where can I get my coin professionally graded?
Reputable grading services include the Professional Coin Grading Service (PCGS) and the Numismatic Guaranty Corporation (NGC). Submitting your coin to these organizations will provide an official grade and authentication, which can significantly impact its market value.