A rare and highly sought-after 1969-S Doubled Die Obverse Lincoln Penny has been discovered in an old desk drawer, astonishing coin collectors with its recent auction price of $78,500. This coin, known for its extreme rarity and striking minting error, is one of the most valuable Lincoln cents in circulation today.
The lucky find highlights just how valuable everyday objects can become—especially when they contain forgotten coins with rare features.
What Is the 1969-S Doubled Die Obverse Penny?
The 1969-S Doubled Die Obverse (DDO) penny is a famous mint error caused by a misalignment during the die-creation process.
This error resulted in strong doubling on the obverse (front) side of the coin, particularly noticeable on the words “LIBERTY”, “IN GOD WE TRUST”, and the date “1969”.
Unlike light or “machine doubling” that’s relatively common and less valuable, this type of doubled die error is deeply impressed and easily visible to the naked eye.
This coin was produced at the San Francisco Mint, indicated by the small “S” mint mark beneath the date.
Key Features of the 1969-S Doubled Die Penny
Here’s a detailed breakdown of what makes this coin special:
| Feature | Details |
|---|---|
| Year | 1969 |
| Mint Mark | S (San Francisco Mint) |
| Type of Error | Doubled Die Obverse (not mechanical doubling) |
| Visible Doubling | “LIBERTY,” “IN GOD WE TRUST,” and the date “1969” |
| Metal Composition | 95% Copper, 5% Zinc |
| Weight | 3.11 grams |
| Diameter | 19.05 mm |
| Edge | Plain |
| Known Examples | Fewer than 50 verified |
| Estimated Value Range | $30,000 – over $100,000 (based on condition) |
This particular coin was preserved in remarkably good condition, which played a key role in its final $78,500 sale price.
How Was the Coin Found?
The penny was discovered in the back of a vintage desk drawer inherited from a relative. The finder, a hobbyist with a mild interest in coins, noticed the unusual doubling on the front of the penny and decided to get it examined.
After submitting it to a coin grading service, it was confirmed to be an authentic 1969-S Doubled Die Obverse Penny, and the grade it received boosted its value significantly. Upon entering it into an online auction, competitive bidding pushed the final sale to an astonishing $78,500.
Why Is the 1969-S Doubled Die Penny So Valuable?
Several reasons contribute to the coin’s high value:
- Extremely Low Survival Rate: Fewer than 50 examples are known to exist today.
- Historic Confusion: Early discoveries were mistakenly thought to be counterfeit and destroyed, making the remaining coins even rarer.
- Striking Doubling: The dramatic visual doubling makes it one of the most identifiable and appealing error coins.
- Collector Demand: It is considered a “must-have” for serious Lincoln cent collectors.
Collectors prize this coin not only for its rarity but also for its bold, unmistakable error that tells a story from the U.S. Mint’s past.
How to Identify a 1969-S Doubled Die Penny
If you suspect you have a 1969-S penny that might be valuable, here’s what to look for:
- Clear doubling on LIBERTY and IN GOD WE TRUST
- Doubling on the date “1969”
- The “S” mint mark should not be doubled (since it was added separately after the die was created)
If your coin meets these visual clues, it’s worth getting it professionally authenticated by a coin grading service. Even lower-grade examples can be worth tens of thousands of dollars.
The discovery of a 1969-S Doubled Die Obverse penny worth $78,500 in a forgotten drawer is a testament to the hidden treasures that can be found in everyday life. With fewer than 50 known examples in existence, this coin remains one of the most coveted error pennies ever minted.
If you have old change or inherited coin collections, take a closer look—because the next rare penny might just be hiding in your home, waiting to be rediscovered.
FAQs
How do I know if my 1969-S penny is real and not a fake?
Look for bold and clear doubling on the obverse, and have it verified by a reputable coin grading service to ensure authenticity.
Are all 1969-S pennies valuable?
No. Only the Doubled Die Obverse variety is rare and valuable. Most 1969-S pennies are worth face value or slightly more unless they have unique errors.
Can a circulated 1969-S DDO penny still be worth money?
Yes. Even circulated examples of this rare coin can fetch $30,000 or more, depending on condition and eye appeal.