Imagine finding a penny in your pocket that’s worth more than a house! The 1955 Lincoln Wheat Penny, a rare coin with a unique mistake, can be valued at up to $410,000. Some of these treasures might still be hiding in your change. Let’s dive into what makes this penny so special, how it was made, and how you can spot one.
What Is the 1955 Lincoln Wheat Penny?
The Lincoln Wheat Penny was first made in 1909 to honor President Abraham Lincoln’s 100th birthday. It was the first U.S. coin to show a real person’s face instead of a symbol. The back of the coin has two wheat stalks, which is why it’s called the “Wheat Penny.”
In 1955, a mistake happened at the Philadelphia Mint, creating a rare version of this penny. This error, called the “Doubled Die Obverse,” makes the coin super valuable today.
Key Facts About the 1955 Lincoln Penny
| Feature | Details |
|---|---|
| Year | 1955 |
| Mint | Philadelphia (no mint mark) |
| Error Type | Doubled Die Obverse |
| Material | 95% Copper, 5% Zinc & Tin |
| Value Range | $1,500 to $410,000+ |
| Collectability | Very High |
| Where to Find | Pocket change, coin jars, bank rolls |
Learn more about U.S. coins at the U.S. Mint’s website.
Why Is the 1955 Penny So Valuable?
The 1955 Lincoln Penny’s high value comes from a clear mistake. The date (“1955”), “LIBERTY,” and “IN GOD WE TRUST” on the front of the coin appear doubled. This happened because the minting machine made two impressions by mistake.
Only a few thousand of these error coins were released into circulation before the mistake was caught. Many ended up in people’s pockets or coin jars. Today, collectors love these pennies because they’re so rare.
The coin’s value depends on its condition:
- Like-new coins: Can sell for over $400,000.
- Slightly worn coins: Worth $10,000 to $50,000.
- Worn-out coins: Still worth thousands.
How to Identify a 1955 Doubled Die Penny
Want to check if you have this rare penny? Follow these simple steps:
Step 1: Find a 1955 Penny
Look for a penny dated 1955 with no mint mark (made in Philadelphia).
Step 2: Check for Doubling
Use a magnifying glass to look at:
- The date (“1955”)
- The word “LIBERTY”
- The phrase “IN GOD WE TRUST”
If these look clearly doubled (not blurry), you might have a winner.
Step 3: Don’t Clean the Coin
Never clean a rare coin! Cleaning can lower its value. Keep it as you found it.
Step 4: Get It Checked
If you think you have one, take it to a professional coin grading service like:
- PCGS (Professional Coin Grading Service)
- NGC (Numismatic Guaranty Company)
- ANA (American Numismatic Association)
Grading usually costs $20–$50, depending on the coin’s value.
Tips to Find a Rare 1955 Penny
Here are some fun ways to hunt for this valuable penny:
Check Your Change
Look through your pocket change, tip jars, or cash registers. You never know what you’ll find!
Search Old Coin Jars
Ask family or friends if you can check their old coin collections or jars saved over the years.
Get Bank Rolls
Visit a bank and get rolls of pennies to search through. It takes time but can be exciting.
Join Coin Collector Groups
Connect with others on websites like Coin Community Forum or coin-related Facebook groups to learn more.
Conclusion
The 1955 Doubled Die Lincoln Wheat Penny is a hidden gem in the world of coin collecting. Its unique mistake, rich history, and huge value make it a thrilling find. You don’t need to be an expert to start looking—just keep your eyes open when you handle change or old coins. With a bit of luck, you could discover a penny worth up to $410,000!
Frequently Asked Questions
Q1: How do I know if my 1955 penny is the rare one?
Use a magnifying glass to check for clear doubling on the date and words on the front.
Q2: Can I still find these pennies in circulation?
Yes, some may still be in pocket change, old jars, or collections.
Q3: Does cleaning a penny make it more valuable?
No, cleaning a coin can lower its value. Always leave it untouched.