Do you know that a small error on a 1972 penny could make it worth hundreds or even thousands of dollars? A special kind of mistake, called a “doubling error,” is what you should look out for. This error could turn your simple penny into something worth up to $1,400!
What is the Doubling Error?
The doubling error happens when part of the design on a coin is printed twice, making it look a bit blurry or shadowed. On a 1972 penny, you can see this mistake on the date, the word “Liberty,” and the phrase “In God We Trust.” This kind of error is known as a “double die” coin, and it’s rare to find. However, if you do have one, you’re in luck!
Why Are Doubling Errors So Valuable?
Eric Miller, a well-known coin expert with millions of TikTok followers, shared how valuable these pennies can be. One person found a penny with this doubling error and sold it for nearly $700, and this was an ungraded coin. A graded or certified penny, however, can sell for even more—up to $1,400.
How to Check If Your Penny Is Valuable
If you have a 1972 penny, take a close look at the lettering on the front. If you see that the letters or numbers appear doubled, then you may have found something valuable! Even better, you can easily check your penny’s value by getting it certified through the PCGS website.
Table: Quick Guide to Identifying Valuable Coins
| Coin | Year | Error or Detail | Estimated Value |
|---|---|---|---|
| Penny | 1972 | Doubling error on the front | Up to $1,400 |
| Quarter | 1965 | Struck on a silver planchet | Up to $8,400 |
| Quarter | 1964 and older | Made of 90% silver | Up to $7,200 |
Valuable Coins Aren’t Just Pennies!
Besides pennies, you should also keep an eye out for other valuable coins. For example, certain 1965 quarters could be worth thousands of dollars! Quarters minted before 1965 were made mostly of silver. Sometimes, a few 1965 quarters were accidentally struck on silver planchets, making them more valuable. These silver quarters weigh slightly more than regular ones, so if you have a 1965 quarter, weigh it. If it’s heavier than usual, it could be worth a lot of money!
Conclusion
You never know what valuable coins might be hiding in your pocket change. Whether it’s a penny with a doubling error or a silver quarter from 1965, your coins could be worth much more than you think. Checking your change for these rare coins could pay off in a big way.
FAQ’s
How can I tell if my penny has a doubling error?
Look closely at the front of your 1972 penny. If the letters or numbers appear to be printed twice, you may have a rare double die penny.
How can I check if my quarter is made of silver?
Look at the edge of your quarter. If it’s silver in color and weighs more than 5.67 grams, it could be a valuable silver quarter.
Should I get my coin certified?
Yes, certifying your coin can increase its value. You can do this easily through websites like PCGS.