1. Double Die Obverse (DDO) – “LIBERTY” Thickening
Claim: Major doubling error worth $500K+
Reality Check:
Possible DDO: Some 1950s-S pennies have minor DDOs
Known Varieties:
- 1955-S DDO (worth $1,000-$5,000 in MS-63)
- 1958-S DDO (worth $500-$2,500)
$1M+ Value? Only if combined with other extreme errors
Key Signs of Real DDO:
- Distinct separation (not just thickening)
- Matches PCGS/CONECA-listed varieties
- Visible under 10x magnification
2. Die Clash Marks – “Trace of His Back”
Claim: Faint line indicates valuable clash
Reality Check:
Possible Clash: Wheat cents can show die clashes
Typical Value: $50-$300 for minor clashes
Not Memorial Columns: (Wheat reverse clashes show stalks)
Genuine Clash Indicators:
- Mirror-image impressions
- Matching known clash patterns
- Located at die contact points
3. Wrong Planchet Error – Rim Claim
Claim: Struck on incorrect blank
Reality Check:
No Visual Evidence:
- Correct copper color
- Normal penny diameter
- No missing design elements
Only Viable If: - Weighs 2.5g (zinc) or 3.11g (copper)
- Shows mixed metal layers
Actual Wrong Planchet Values:
- Penny on dime planchet: $1,000-$10,000
- Copper 1943 cent: $100,000+
Professional Valuation Estimate
| Feature | Standalone Value | Combined Premium |
|---|---|---|
| Minor DDO | $300-$2,500 | +50% |
| Die Clash | $100-$500 | +30% |
| Normal Planchet | Face value-$1 | N/A |
Total Realistic Value:
- MS-63 with errors: $500-$3,000
- Only worth $1M+ if:
- Graded MS-67+ Red
- Multiple major errors
- PCGS/NGC certified
3 Steps to Verify Your Coin
- Magnify (10x): Check for true doubling (not machine doubling)
- Weigh Precisely: Must be 3.11g (copper)
- Compare to PCGS CoinFacts: Match to known varieties
Red Flags in Viral Listings
Stock photos (not the actual coin)
No certification (raw coins ≠ graded value)
“Trace” errors (too minor to add premium)
Legitimate $1M+ Pennies Exist For:
- 1943 Copper
- 1955 DDO (MS-67+)
- 1909-S VDB (RD)
