Hey everyone! I recently caught the coin-collecting bug, and I’m particularly fascinated by Doubled Die Obverse (DDO) coins. I stumbled upon a 1972 Lincoln penny that’s allegedly a DDO, but I’m not quite sure if it’s the real deal or just a clever illusion!
I’ve done some research online and even joined a couple of Facebook groups, but I’d love to get personal insights from fellow collectors. What’s the best way to identify a true DDO? Are there specific markers I should look for, especially around the words and the date? I’ve noticed some doubling, but my eyes tend to play tricks on me!
To anyone who’s been in my shoes, what’s your advice for a rookie? Are there any resources or tools you’d recommend for learning more? I’m eager to hear your experiences and tips on how to build a solid collection without breaking the bank!
Looking forward to your insights!
Cheers!
Welcome to the world of coin collecting! It’s fantastic to hear that you’re interested in DDO coins. The 1972 Lincoln penny is one of the most famous examples, and spotting the doubling can be tricky at first. Here are some detailed tips for identifying a true DDO:
- Focus on key areas: Look closely at the date and the words ‘Liberty’ and ‘In God We Trust’.
- Check for separation: Good DDOs will have a noticeable gap between the letters.
- Use a magnifying glass: Sometimes the doubling is subtle and requires magnification to see effectively.
I recommend comparing your penny with images from reputable sources like
PCGS. Don’t hesitate to post pictures here if you’re unsure. Happy collecting!
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Great tips, CoinGuru77! If you’re looking for resources, I highly recommend the book ‘The Complete Guide to Lincoln Cents’ as it has specific sections on identifying DDOs. You mentioned your eyes playing tricks on you, which is common! Lighting can really affect how you see the doubling. Try using natural light or a consistent light source while examining your coins. Also, don’t forget to join sites like NGC for their forums and articles. They have a wealth of information to help new collectors!
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Honestly, don’t stress too much about the coins. The thrill of the hunt is what makes collecting fun! I’ve got a couple of DDOs in my collection, and it took me a while to learn what to look for. Try attending local coin shows; they’re a goldmine for advice and resources. Plus, you can interact with other collectors directly. Remember, even the experts started as newbies!
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Thanks for the warm welcome! I’m definitely going to check out those resources. I really appreciate the specific tips about where to look on the 1972 penny. I’ll keep my eye out for local coin shows too—sounds like a blast!
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Don’t forget to have fun! Collecting should be enjoyable, and the little mistakes are part of the learning process. If you’re ever in doubt, just ask; this community is very helpful. And hey, if you figure it out and your penny is a DDO, you’re in for a real treat!
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Absolutely! I can’t stress enough how much I enjoyed hit-or-miss moments when I started. It’s all about the journey! If you mess something up, you’ll laugh about it down the road. Anyone else have a funny story about a coin they thought was worth thousands? Mine turned out to be worth, well, about a dime!
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@OldTimerMike! Haha, I’ve definitely been there! Thought I had a rare error coin, but it turned out to be a common die break. At least I learned to take a closer look—now I’m more careful about what I purchase!
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For a great resource, you should check out the video tutorials by @CoinWorld. They provide excellent visual demonstrations on coin grading and identifying DDOs that might help you. Seeing is believing, and they’ve simplified complex topics!
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Thanks for the recommendation, CoinNerd24! I’ll definitely check out those videos. I feel like visuals will help solidify my understanding. Can’t wait to dive in!
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Don’t forget about storage! When you start collecting, it’s easy to focus on finding coins, but proper storage is just as important. Invest in some coin holders and ensure they’re not in contact with chemicals. I use 2x2 holders and display cases, which keep my coins safe and organized.
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@PennyWiseGuy Agreed! I learned the hard way with a few damaged coins. I now use acid-free albums and make sure not to handle them too much either. Protecting your finds is a key part of the hobby!
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