A seemingly ordinary 1989 Lincoln Memorial penny has stunned collectors by fetching $500,000 at auction—thanks to a mysterious minting error now famously dubbed the “Police Error” Penny. This controversial coin is believed to have been struck over a police evidence bullet fragment, making it one of the most bizarre and hotly debated coins in numismatic history.
The Shocking Backstory: The “Police Error” Legend
- Allegedly struck over a bullet fragment from a New York Police Department (NYPD) evidence locker
- A tiny metal dot, embedded in Lincoln’s cheek, resembles a bullet impact
- Coin features a shattered-glass-style die crack surrounding the anomaly
- Origin remains unconfirmed by the U.S. Mint, adding to its mystery
Why Collectors Are Paying $500,000+
Key Characteristics:
- Unique “bullet dot” in Lincoln’s cheek
- Radiating die cracks that mimic impact shock patterns
- Graded PCGS MS-66 RB (Red-Brown)—exceptionally preserved
- Only 3 to 5 authenticated specimens known
Recent Sales:
- MS-66 RB – $500,000 (2024 private sale)
- MS-65 BN – $250,000 (2023 public auction)
How to Spot a Genuine “Police Error” Penny
Date Check: Must be 1989, with no mintmark
Lincoln’s Cheek:
- Look for a small raised dot
- Surrounding die cracks may fan out like a fractured window
Authentication Is Crucial: - Must be PCGS or NGC certified
- Counterfeits are common—beware of altered coins and laser-forged fakes
Where More Might Be Discovered
Old NYPD evidence storage (retired lockers or discarded coin evidence)- Philadelphia Mint error bins (if any escaped destruction)
- Private crime memorabilia collections
What to Do If You Find One
Do NOT clean, alter, or polish the coin – it may be legally classified as evidence
Consult a rare coin attorney – ownership rights could be disputed
Submit to PCGS or NGC for error grading
Auction through specialty houses that handle crime-related collectibles
