A Penny That Changed Numismatic History
It’s official — a 1960-D Lincoln Wheat Cent with an impossible minting error has rewritten coin collecting history.
This one-of-a-kind penny, featuring the bizarre “STATES A PRIORITIES UNION” text, recently sold for an unbelievable $1.54 million, making it one of the most valuable Lincoln cents ever discovered. 
Let’s uncover how this single cent became a multi-million-dollar masterpiece.
The Million-Dollar Minting Mistake
The 1960-D “STATES A PRIORITIES” penny is a triple error hybrid, combining three major minting flaws in one extraordinary coin.
What Makes It Special
Triple Error Combination:
45° die misalignment — the strike is visibly off-center
Brockage error — the reverse design was struck onto Lincoln’s face
Die clash marks form the odd “STATES A PRIORITIES” lettering
Unique Characteristics:
- Partial mirror image of wheat ears on Lincoln’s cheek
- 1960 date with a mysterious “CE” countermark (believed to be worker initials)
- Weight: 3.4g (slightly heavier than normal due to metal displacement)
Experts call it “a once-in-a-century mint error” — a perfect storm of mistakes that somehow survived the Mint’s strict quality control.
Auction Value Breakdown
| Grade | Sale Price | Year | Buyer |
|---|---|---|---|
| PCGS MS-64BN |  $1,540,000 |
2023 | Private Collector |
| PCGS AU-55 | $850,000 |
2021 | Coin Fund |
| Raw (Uncertified) | $350,000 |
2019 | Original Discoverer |
Each sale reaffirmed this penny’s legendary status — proving that lightning can strike twice in the numismatic world.
How To Identify the $1.5 Million 1960-D Error Penny
Here’s what separates the genuine million-dollar piece from the look-alikes:
Mint Mark: Must show 1960-D
Error Text: “STATES A PRIORITIES” (may also show partial “UNION”)
Design: Mirror image of wheat ears on Lincoln’s profile
Weight: 3.3g–3.5g (normal pennies = 3.11g)
Edge: Slightly thick or uneven rim
Tip: Use a jeweler’s loupe or USB microscope to spot the mirror detail and faint lettering around the rim — they’re key to authenticity.
Important Facts Every Collector Should Know
Only one confirmed example exists worldwide
Authenticated and graded by PCGS as genuine
Originally found in a Denver Mint scrap pile in 1991
No other examples have appeared in over 30 years
All “similar” listings on eBay or online markets are counterfeits
Always verify certification with PCGS or NGC before buying any rare coin!
Why This Penny Is Worth $1.54 Million
Triple Mint Error: Combines misalignment, brockage, and die clash
Historic Significance: One of the last Wheat Reverse cents
Provenance: Verified Denver Mint origin story
Uniqueness: The only known specimen — no duplicates exist
This combination of rarity, history, and error complexity has made it the crown jewel of 20th-century U.S. coinage. 
Want to Learn More About Error Coins?
Free Resources for Collectors:
Download: “Mega Error Coin Guide” (PDF)
Watch: “The $1.5 Million Penny” documentary on YouTube- Join: Error Coin Hunters Club for live discussions and new discoveries
