Hey fellow collectors! Recently, I stumbled upon a beautiful 1955 Lincoln Wheat penny in my collection that appears to be a double strike. I was flipping through my coins on a lazy Sunday afternoon, and when I noticed the strange impressions on both sides, my heart skipped a beat! I double-checked the minting details and a few resources online, and it indeed looks like I might have a more valuable piece than I originally thought.
Double strikes can be elusive, and I’ve heard stories of collectors spending years without ever spotting one. Mine is in solid VF condition—just enough wear to be charming but still retains great detail, especially on Lincoln’s profile. The unique offset of the strikes makes it even more visually striking! I’m curious to know if anyone here has had a similar experience or found a noteworthy double strike.
What techniques do you use when hunting for coins with errors like double strikes? Do you think the thrill of finding one is worth the time and effort? Let’s hear your stories and tips!
Wow, that sounds amazing! Double strikes are definitely a sought-after find in the coin collecting world. I remember my first double strike; it was a 1976 Eisenhower dollar I found in a roll at my local bank. The off-center strike was so pronounced that I immediately thought it was fake, but after some quick research, I confirmed it was the real deal. Finding such errors adds a layer of excitement to collecting that I think many newcomers understate. I can’t wait to see pictures of yours! What do you plan to do with your find? Will you get it graded? PCGS offers great resources for collectors looking to learn more about grading errors. Cheers!
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That’s so cool! I’ve been coin collecting for about three years, and I’ve never found a double strike. I think the thrill of discovery is worth all the effort. Sometimes it’s like finding hidden treasure! Have you considered joining local coin shows? That’s where I’ve had the best luck spotting rare finds! Best of luck with your Lincoln penny!
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Thanks @CoinLover99! I’ll definitely think about getting it graded. I want to ensure its authenticity, especially if it’s as valuable as I hope. I’m curious, how did you go about getting your Eisenhower graded? Did you use PCGS or another service?
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Absolutely, SilverSeeker! Coin shows can be a fantastic opportunity! I’ve met some incredible collectors who have shared tips with me. I once learned a method to identify minor errors on coins by flipping them in the light at different angles that really helped me spot a few hidden gems in my collection. If you get a chance, attend a show!
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Double strikes are truly exceptional finds! I found a 1943 steel penny once that was double struck, and it changed the way I view penny hunting. My advice would be to always examine your coins in good light and under magnification. Make sure to look for certain traits like die rotation and offset strikes. Also, get your coins in decent protective holders to maintain their quality. And yes, documenting your finds with photographs can be really exciting! Take your time and enjoy the process!
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Thanks for the tips, @CoinGuru87! I totally agree on the importance of good light. It made a difference in spotting the double strike in my penny. Do you think it’s worth getting it certified even if it’s only in VF condition?
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I know that thrill! I’ve found a couple of double strikes over the years, including a 1999 quarter. The errors can sometimes be hard to notice, so take your time inspecting; sometimes they’re hiding in plain sight! Regarding certification, I think it depends on your goals for the coin. If you plan to resell it or keep it for a significant time, certification might be a wise choice.
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That’s a good question, @CoinHunter23. If it were me, I would lean towards getting it certified, especially since you mentioned it was a double strike. Even if it’s in VF condition, the uniqueness can often override the grade. It could help its value later down the line, not to mention increase your peace of mind about authenticity.
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What a great topic! I love hearing about others’ finds. I once discovered a double-struck 1995 dime in a lot I bought online. It had such an off-center shift that it looked almost like a minting error art piece! I still enjoy showing it off at coin events. It’s not only about the monetary value; the stories behind each piece can be just as valuable. Keep sharing the love for error coins, everyone!
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