A doubled die coin is a type of mint error where the coin’s design elements appear duplicated or overlapping.
Here’s how to identify one:
- Examine with Magnification: While some doubled dies are obvious, others require a magnifying glass or loupe to clearly see the doubling.
- Look for Clear Doubling: You’ll see distinct, separated doubling on features like the date, lettering (e.g., “LIBERTY,” “IN GOD WE TRUST,” “ONE CENT”), or design elements, [according to APMEX] . This doubling will look raised and rounded, like the original design, rather than flat or smeared like other types of doubling.
- Check for Notching: Doubled dies often exhibit “notching” at the corners of letters where the doubled images overlap, [according to Coin ID Scanner].
- Know the Famous Doubled Dies: Certain years and denominations are particularly known for prominent doubled die errors. The 1955 and 1972 Lincoln Cents are famous examples of coins with easily noticeable doubled obverses.
- Distinguish from other doubling: Doubled dies are created during the die manufacturing process, where the hub (used to create the die) is misaligned or mismatched during multiple impressions. This differs from:
– Double-struck coins , which are struck multiple times by a perfectly good die.
– Machine doubling , which results from a bouncing die during the striking process, creating a flat, shelf-like appearance on the duplicated elements.
In short, a true doubled die will have clear, raised doubling that is part of the die itself, not an effect of the striking process. For definitive authentication and valuation, especially with rarer and higher-value examples, it is best to consult with a professional coin grading service or experienced numismatist.
Are all double die coins worth money?
Not all doubled die pennies are extremely valuable, but all doubled die coins are worth more than their face value. Many common and subtle doubled die pennies are worth $10-20. Certain exceptionally rare or recognizable doubled die pennies can be worth thousands.
What does double dye on a coin look like?
This phenomenon occurs during minting when the die used to strike the coin impresses the design onto the coin multiple times in slightly misaligned positions. As a result, elements of the design appear doubled or overlapping, creating a distinct visual effect on the coin.