Ned Ludd Coins » 1955 Double Die Penny Value: are No mint mark worth money?

1955 Double Die Penny Value: are No mint mark worth money?

The 1955 Double Die Penny is a rare and highly sought-after coin among collectors and enthusiasts. The primary reason for so much buzz around this particular penny is the unique minting error that sparked the curiosity of collectors all around the globe. So, if you’re an enthusiast interested in learning more about the 1955 Double Die Penny, you have stumbled upon the perfect place. 

In this article, we will go over the details of the 1955 Double Die Penny, discussing its defining characteristics, overall value, historical worth, and grading-related information. So, read on to find all the interesting details about the 1955 Double Die Penny.

1955 Double Die Penny Details

For newbie coin enthusiasts; the 1955 Double Die Penny is quite interesting. Here is a quick rundown of the key aspects of the 1955 Double Die Penny:

  • Category: Lincoln Wheat Cent
  • Mint: Philadelphia
  • Total mintage: 20,000 to 24,000 (estimated)
  • Obverse designer: Victor D. Brenner
  • Reverse designer: Victor D. Brenner
  • Edge: Plain
  • Diameter: 19.05 mm
  • Thickness: 1.55 mm
  • Composition: 95% copper, 5% tin, and zinc
  • Weight: 3.11 grams

Also Read: Top 20 Most Valuable Old Pennies Worth Money (Penny Collection)

1955 Double Die Penny Value Chart

Below is a chart displaying the value of 1955 Double Die Pennies in different grades with the mint mark specified as well. However, you need to remember that these values are approximate and may vary depending on factors such as market demand and the condition of the specific coin in question.

Mint Mark Extremely Fine (XF) MS63 MS65 MS67
1955 (P) Double Die Penny $1,564 $3,995 $8,750 $10,000+

As with many rare and valuable coins, the 1955 Double Die Penny has been the target of counterfeiters. Some of these fakes can be pretty convincing, making it essential for collectors to familiarize themselves with the genuine coin’s identifying features and exercise caution when purchasing one.

Counterfeit 1955 Double Die Pennies can negatively impact the value of authentic coins by flooding the market with fakes and causing uncertainty among buyers. To protect themselves from purchasing counterfeit coins, collectors should consider buying certified examples graded by reputable third-party grading services like PCGS or NGC. These services authenticate and grade coins, giving buyers added confidence in their purchase.

1955 Double Die Penny Values & Varieties Guides

This coin’s value varies greatly depending on its grade, which can range from circulated coins with significant wear to uncirculated examples with minimal or no wear. 

Since this is a unique error coin that was only minted at the Philadelphia Mint, there are no multiple varieties that exist. However, there can be three different color variations or hues with this coin, including brown, red, and a combination of both hues. 

1955 (P) Double Die Penny Value

1955 (P) Double Die Penny Value
Image Credit: pcgs
  • Category: Lincoln Wheat Cent
  • Mint: Philadelphia
  • Total mintage: 20,000 to 24,000 (estimated)
  • Obverse designer: Victor D. Brenner
  • Reverse designer: Victor D. Brenner
  • Edge: Plain
  • Diameter: 19.05 mm
  • Thickness: 1.55 mm
  • Composition: 95% copper, 5% tin, and zinc
  • Weight: 3.11 grams

The 1955 Double Die Penny minted in Philadelphia is characterized by its bold doubling on the obverse side, particularly visible on the date and inscriptions “LIBERTY” and “IN GOD WE TRUST.” This striking doubling results from a misaligned die during the minting process, which caused the die to strike the coin twice, creating the distinct doubled effect. This error has given the 1955 Double Die Penny its iconic status among error coins and has played a significant role in its increased value.

There is only one major kind of the 1955 Double Die Penny, which was minted at the Philadelphia Mint. However, the minted coins may vary slightly in color or hues and have been categorized as ‘brown’, ‘red and brown’, and ‘red’ by the PCGS. 

The estimated mintage for the 1955 Double Die Penny is between 20,000 and 24,000 coins. This mintage quantity is not a huge number in the world of minted coins, and the 1955 Double Die Penny is considered to be a prized addition to any coin collection.

The Professional Coin Grading Service (PCGS) values the Philadelphia Mint 1955 Double Die Penny based on its grade, with XF45 (Extremely Fine) examples valued at around $950 to $1,564 and MS65 (Mint State) examples fetching approximately $2,500 to $8,750. Coins in even higher grades, such as MS67, can command prices well into the five-figure range.

For the brown-colored 1955 Double Die Penny, the auction record reached as high as $24,000, while for the ‘red and brown’ type, the auction record reaches $32,400. For the ‘red’ type of 1955 Double Die Penny, the auction record has been $114,000 in 2018. 

The defining features of this variety are the prominent doubling on the obverse side, making it relatively easy to identify even for amateur collectors. However, it is essential to be cautious of counterfeit examples, as the coin’s rarity and value have made it a target for unscrupulous individuals seeking to profit from creating convincing fakes. To protect oneself, it is advisable to seek out certified examples from reputable dealers or grading services, ensuring the authenticity of the 1955 Double Die Penny.

All in all, the 1955 Double Die Penny from the Philadelphia Mint stands as a unique and fascinating piece of history, with its bold doubling and limited mintage contributing to its rarity and value. Its captivating story and distinct features make it a sought-after coin for collectors of all experience levels, ensuring its enduring appeal in the world of coin collecting.

History of 1955 Double Die Penny

History of 1955 Double Die Penny
Image Credit: pcgs

If we look back at the history of the 1955 Double Die Penny, it is quite interesting to note that the penny was actually minted purely by accident due to a double die minting error. 

Generally, when the minting process starts the coin die is meticulously prepared by making use of a coin hub. Afterward, the die is constantly going through cooling or heating phases in between different impressions. However, this is exactly where the 1955 Double Die Penny error originated. When it was time for the final impression and the coin die and coin hub were aligned, the die makers failed to notice that the die and hub were a little bit rotated. This distinctive doubling is particularly noticeable on the date, as well as the inscriptions “LIBERTY” and “IN GOD WE TRUST.”

Now, this error went unnoticed by the coin makers and they used the “error” stricken coin die to produce further coins too. These coins also slipped through the quality control procedures as they were minted overnight when supervision isn’t that stringent. However, the error was discovered soon after the coins were released into circulation, and many were quickly pulled from circulation by collectors who recognized their value. 

As a result, the 1955 Double Die Penny quickly gained a reputation as a rare and valuable coin, with only an estimated 20,000 to 24,000 examples believed to exist today. This low mintage, combined with the fact that many were removed from circulation by collectors shortly after their release, has only increased the coin’s desirability.

Demand for the 1955 Double Die Penny remains strong, with prices often exceeding expectations at auctions and private sales. Obviously, it is hard to question this high demand and the response from the collectors’ community. In addition to its rarity, the coin’s fascinating minting error and the story behind its creation have contributed to its enduring popularity.

1955 Double Die Penny Grading

Grading the 1955 Double Die Penny is crucial to determining its value, as the coin’s condition plays a significant role in its worth. Coin grading is a standardized process that evaluates a coin’s physical condition, taking into account factors such as wear, damage, and overall preservation. The higher the grade, the more valuable the coin is likely to be.

For an informative and comprehensive guide to grading the 1955 Double Die Penny, check out this YouTube video that specifically discusses this unique coin’s grading process: 

List of 1955 Double Die Penny Error

While the 1955 Double Die Penny is most famous for its prominent doubling error on the obverse side, there are other error varieties that have been identified. Below, we explore some of these error types, each with its own unique characteristics and appeal.

1. 1955 Double Die Penny Die Breaks

1955 Double Die Penny Die Breaks
Image Credit: walmart

Die breaks occur when a small part of the coin die cracks or breaks off during the minting process. This can result in raised lines or ridges on the surface of the coin, often referred to as “cuds.” Die breaks can add to the collectible value of a 1955 Double Die Penny, as they represent an additional level of rarity and uniqueness.

2. 1955 Double Die Penny Die Clashes

1955 Double Die Penny Die Clashes
Image Credit: ebay

Die clashes occur when the obverse and reverse dies come into contact without a planchet (blank coin) in between them. This can cause the design elements from one side of the coin to be impressed on the other side, creating an interesting and distinctive pattern. While not as dramatic as the doubling error, die clashes can still be an appealing attribute for collectors.

3. 1955 Double Die Penny Off-Center Strikes

1955 Double Die Penny Off-Center Strikes
Image Credit: coincommunity

An off-center strike happens when a planchet is not correctly aligned within the coining press, causing the design to be struck off-center. In extreme cases, this can result in only a portion of the design is visible on the coin. Off-center strikes can be pretty rare and are often sought after by collectors of error coins.

Once you understand the various error types associated with the 1955 Double Die Penny, you can better appreciate the nuances and complexities of this fascinating and unique coin.

In a world where the art of coin collecting continues to evolve, the 1955 Double Die Penny serves as a reminder of the importance of errors and varieties in numismatics. Whether you are a seasoned collector or new to the hobby, this intriguing coin is sure to captivate your imagination and inspire your passion for the world of coins.

Although it was minted merely as a random error, it is remarkable to notice the high demand that it holds. Now that you have all the information regarding the defining features of 1955 double die penny, it would be easier to make the right evaluation about the overall worth of a prospective 1955 double die penny. 

1955 Double Die Penny FAQ

1. How Do I know if my coin is a 1955 Double Die Penny?

The 1955 Double Die Penny is one of a kind minting error, but you can still spot the difference without spending hours and hours wondering about this. On the coin you would see two very thin and straight (horizontal) lines that are coming out from the left of “T” crossbar in the word “CENTS”. This is the marker that’s a defining attribute of this unique pairing of reverse and obverse die. Moreover, this market can be conveniently used to identify whether your coin is genuinely a 1955 Double Die Penny or you just have a counterfeit. 

2. What Makes the 1955 Double Die Penny really rare?

One of the factors that made the 1955 Double Die Penny is that a total of around 40,000 were ever minted and only about 20,000 to 24,000 coins were circulated. Moreover, the error was purely by chance and made for an intriguing history story as well. 

3. How rare are the double die pennies in general?

You would be surprised to know that the double die error is so rare that there are only about 100 different coins with a double die error. Now, this is an astonishingly low count for a global figure. Undoubtedly, these coins are in very high demand among the collectors and sometimes may exceed the price range of many newbie collectors. 

4. How many 1955 Double Die Pennies are really out there?

Although the Philadelphia Mint ended up minting around 40,000 such coins, they only sent about 20,000 to 24,000 pennies in circulation. 

1 thought on “1955 Double Die Penny Value: are No mint mark worth money?”

  1. Hi, I was left a roll of 1955 pennies by my mom. The roll is from the mint and never opened is this something I
    should have a professional open and grade and search or would it cost more than they are probably worth? Thanks Perry.

    Reply

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