A seemingly ordinary 1985-D Lincoln Memorial cent has shocked the numismatic community after selling for a staggering $3 million at auction. Here’s what makes this modern-era coin so incredibly valuable.
The Million-Dollar Mistake
Key Attributes:
- Major Error in “LIBERTY” Inscription: Doubling or partial loss of letters
- Denver Mint (“D”) Mark: Only three verified examples exist
- Exceptional Condition: PCGS-certified MS-69 Red — virtually flawless
- Suspected Experimental Strike: Backed by mint documentation
Record-Breaking Auction Sales
- 2024: MS-69 RD — $3,000,000
- 2023: MS-68 RD — $1,200,000
- 2022: MS-67 RD — $450,000
How to Spot This Rare Coin
1. Confirm the Year: The date must be 1985
2. Look for the Mint Mark: A clear “D” below the year
3. Inspect the Word “LIBERTY”:
- Letters may appear doubled, faint, or incomplete
- Look for a subtle shadow-like effect
4. Evaluate Condition: - Must have full original red color
- Mirror-like surfaces, no visible wear
Estimated Value by Grade
| Grade | Value Estimate |
|---|---|
| MS-69 RD | $2.5M – $3.5M |
| MS-68 RD | $1M – $1.5M |
| MS-67 RD | $400K – $600K |
| AU-58 | $50K – $100K |
Where These Coins Might Be Hiding
Unsearched bank rolls (especially from Denver)
Inherited coin collections
Estate sales in western U.S. states
Original mint sets with overlooked anomalies
Found One? Here’s What To Do:
Handle with extreme care — use cotton gloves only
Capture high-resolution macro photos (both sides)
Submit immediately to PCGS (use VIP grading tier)
Contact Heritage Auctions or a top-tier auction house
