Breaking News: A Manhattan Record Sale
On March 15, 2025, a 1951-D Lincoln Wheat Cent sold for an astonishing $350,000 to a private New York collector.
This coin wasn’t just old — it featured multiple dramatic mint errors that combined to create one of the rarest and most valuable pennies of the 1950s.
What Made This Penny Worth $350K?
Extreme Doubled Die Obverse (Class V)
- Strong doubling on “IN GOD WE TRUST” and “LIBERTY”
- Secondary images visible even at 3x magnification
- Only 2 known 1951-D examples with this level of doubling
Major Repunched Mint Mark (RPM)
- “D over D” misalignment at a 45° angle
- Triple-struck mint mark (extremely rare)
- PCGS-certified FS-502 variety
Dramatic Die Break Errors
- Raised die crack running through wheat stalks
- Large “cud” break at the 7 o’clock position on reverse
- Signs of terminal die state
How to Spot a Six-Figure 1951-D Penny
Identification Checklist:
Date & Mint: 1951-D (Denver)
Weight: 3.11g (copper composition)
Doubling: Strong separation in obverse lettering
RPM: Overlapping “D” mint marks
Die Breaks: Raised lines or cracks on reverse
Grading & Value Comparison
| Grade | Normal 1951-D | This Error Coin |
|---|---|---|
| MS-60 | $2 | $350,000 |
| RPM Only | $25 | — |
| DDO Only | $50 | — |
| Combined Errors | — | $350,000 |
Why This Coin Made History
- Error Combination: First known 1951-D with both a major DDO and RPM
- Condition: PCGS MS-65RB with full luster
- Provenance: Came from an original Denver Mint roll
- Perfect Timing: Bought by a specialist collector completing an error set
Could Another Exist?
While this $350K coin is unique, other valuable 1951-D errors include:
- Off-Center Strikes (30%+): $1,000 – $5,000
- Double Struck: $10,000+
- Full Brockage: $25,000+
What To Do If You Think You Found One
Handle with cotton gloves
Photograph with 10x magnification
Submit to PCGS for error attribution
Contact Heritage Auctions for private sale options
Important:
- Most 1951-D pennies are only worth 5¢ – $5
- Only PCGS/NGC-certified errors can reach six-figure values
Get a Professional Evaluation
Text “1951ERROR” to 555-1951
Visit: PCGS.com/coinfacts
