Hey fellow collectors! So, I recently came across what I thought might be a rare error coin while sifting through my collection. It’s a 1972 Lincoln penny that seems to have a double die obverse, and I managed to snap some pretty detailed photos of it. The usual signs are there, like the pronounced doubling on ‘IN GOD WE TRUST’ and the date itself. I’ve spent hours researching and checking online resources, but I wanted to tap into the collective wisdom of this community.
I know error coins can be tricky, especially when it comes to authenticity. I’ve looked at forums, graded examples, and even a few videos that explain what to look for, but I still feel uncertain. The coin is in decent VF condition, but I’m worried about potential counterfeits and how to distinguish them. I’d love your feedback based on the photos—I’ll attach them below.
Has anyone else encountered a situation like this? What specific things did you look for to verify the authenticity of your error coins? I’m eager to hear your thoughts and advice, as any insight from you all would be invaluable!
Hi @CoinEnthusiast92! It’s great to see fellow collectors like you taking an interest in error coins. A double die obverse on a 1972 Lincoln penny is indeed something to be excited about! Here are a few steps to verify its authenticity:
- Check the doubling: Look closely at the areas of the coin where doubling is most evident, especially the lettering. Genuine double dies will show a mechanical doubling in a distinct way, often with a rounded edge, while counterfeits may have more pronounced or less defined doubling.
- Use a loupe: Inspect the coin with at least 10x magnification. You might notice die chatter or other features that can help determine authenticity.
- Compare with known examples: Websites like PCGS or NGC have detailed images of authentic examples that you can use as a reference.
If you upload the photos, I'd love to help further! Good luck with your search!
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I agree with @CoinGuru77! Also, it’s essential to look for any signs of wear that might affect your assessment. A coin that’s supposedly uncirculated but has strange wear patterns could be a red flag. Have you already posted your photos? I’m keen to see them!
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Hi @CoinEnthusiast92,
I had a similar situation with a 1972 penny a few months back. The key is definitely to compare it with certified examples. I used the resources from US Mint and was able to distinguish mine as authentic. It’s helpful to also check forums and past auction results just to get a sense of value and reliability. If your photos are clear, the community here should be able to provide great help!
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@CoinCollector98, that’s a good point about auction results! They’re a wealth of information. As for the photos, @CoinEnthusiast92, make sure they’re well-lit and show the coin from multiple angles. This can help others spot inconsistencies more easily!
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Hey @CoinEnthusiast92! Don’t stress too much about authenticity; we’ve all been there. Sometimes, even experts can’t agree on a coin’s grade or type of error!
Also, if you can, try reaching out to a local coin dealer who specializes in errors—they can give you an on-the-spot evaluation! Have you tried that?
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Thanks for the input, everyone! I’ll make sure to take better photos and post them soon. I appreciate the advice on comparing with known examples. @ErrorCoinHunter, I hadn’t thought about consulting a local dealer—great idea!
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@ErrorCoinHunter, I agree! Local dealers can provide such valuable hands-on assessments. On the other hand, I think having community input is also crucial, especially since we all have different experiences with these kinds of finds. Just make sure to document everything for your own records!
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Hey @CoinEnthusiast92! Can’t wait to see those photos. It’s always exciting to discover a potential error! Just remind yourself that even if it isn’t an error, the thrill of the hunt is what makes collecting fun! 
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I had a friend once who thought he had a rare double die, but it turned out to be machine doubling. It’s a common mistake! So always double-check the photos you pull up for reference. If you’re unsure, feel free to share your photos with us! We love helping each other out!
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@ClassicCoinsUSA, that’s useful advice! I’ll be extra careful to differentiate between double die and machine doubling. Planning to upload my photos later today!
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