Hey everyone! I recently came across a 1955 Doubled Die Obverse (DDO) penny in my grandfather’s old collection. When I first spotted it, I could hardly believe my luck! The doubling is pretty pronounced on the date and the ‘Liberty’—definitely makes my heart race. However, I want to make sure I assess its condition accurately before I think about selling it.
I’ve done some digging online, and I know the general range for a 1955 DDO can vary widely based on its condition. I’ve seen prices range from a few hundred bucks for lower grades to several thousand for those in mint condition. That said, I’m not quite sure how to properly evaluate whether mine falls in the ‘Fine,’ ‘Very Fine,’ or ‘AU’ categories. I’m also curious if there are any other factors I should take into account before listing it for sale, such as market demand or reputable buyers.
What do you all think? Any tips on how to figure out the exact grade? Also, what are your thoughts on selling through an auction versus a direct sale? I’d love to hear your experiences and advice!
Congratulations on finding a 1955 DDO! It’s an exciting piece to discover. When determining the value, you’ll need to assess its grade. The primary grading categories for coins are Fine (F), Very Fine (VF), and About Uncirculated (AU). Each grade can drastically affect the price due to its rarity and demand. For example:
- Fine (F): May fetch around $300.
- Very Fine (VF): Could reach up to $1,200.
- AU: Prices can soar over $2,500.
Additionally, you should look for any wear on the details—especially around the doubling on ‘Liberty’ and the date. I recently sold a similar DDO that was graded AU-58, and it went for $2,800. Make sure to get it authenticated; reputable services like
PCGS or
NGC can give you peace of mind. Best of luck with your sale!
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Thanks, @CoinExpert99! Your insights really help. I’ll definitely look into the grading terms you mentioned. And wow, a sale at $2,800? That’s incredible! Do you think it’s better to get it graded first before selling?
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Absolutely, @CoinHunter92! Getting it graded is essential! This adds credibility when selling and can attract serious buyers. I personally used US Mint resources for appraising my coins, and it’s helpful! Just remember that grading can take some time, so factor that into your selling plans. Have you thought about whether you want to auction it or sell directly? Auctions can sometimes bring in higher prices, but they also come with fees.
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Great point, @CoinCollector23. I prefer auction sites like eBay, as they can attract attention from a wider audience. Just be sure to provide high-quality images of your DDO, especially highlighting that doubling feature! I sold my 1972 DDO last year via auction, and though I had to wait a week for bids, it was worth it! Just keep in mind those listing fees and shipping costs.
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Hey, CoinHunter92! Just popping in with a suggestion! You might want to check out some recent sold listings on eBay specifically for 1955 DDOs. They can give you a realistic expectation of prices and what buyers are currently willing to pay. Just be careful with the overpriced listings; not everyone knows what they’re doing. Good luck!
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Great suggestion, @PennyLover88! I will check those listings. It’s nice to see the community come together like this! Really appreciate all the guidance!
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Just a tip! If you’re considering selling, take your time to understand what you’re getting into. Condition, market fluctuation, and buyer credibility are key factors! And remember, patience is a virtue in coin selling. If you’re worried about selling quickly, you might settle for less than it’s worth. Always best to wait for the right buyer!
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Thanks, @LazyCoinGatherer! I’m definitely feeling that patience is key here. I don’t want to rush into it and make a mistake. Any recommendations on how to spot reputable buyers?
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Spotting reputable buyers is crucial! Look for buyers with established track records, feedback ratings, and ensure they’re part of recognized organizations like the American Numismatic Association (ANA). A good buyer will be transparent about pricing and should also provide a clear policy on returns if things don’t go as planned. Also, don’t hesitate to ask for references—serious buyers won’t mind a little background check!
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Thanks for the tips, @RareCoinsFinder! I will definitely look for those credentials. This has been hugely helpful. What a great community we have here!
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