Lincoln pennies have produced a wide range of minting errors over their 100-plus year history. Whether you’re sorting through pocket change or going through an inherited collection, this penny error list covers the varieties worth knowing—some valued at hundreds or thousands of dollars.

From doubled dies to striking failures, these penny errors reveal the mechanical realities of coin production: die fatigue, planchet mix-ups, and human oversight at the Mint.

This error pennies list with pictures covers the major categories with identification tips, documented sale prices, and the years each error type has been recorded.

• Auto Coin Appraisal Tool: Best Coin Identifier App

Error Penny List By Year

Looking for Most Valuable pennies?

• (1909-1958): Top 100 Most Valuable Wheat Pennies Worth Money
• (1859 – 1909): Top 100 Most Valuable Indian Head Pennies Worth Money
• Even Older?: The Rarest Pennies In the US From 1787

 

error pennies list with pictures

1. Doubled Die Obverse (DDO) Errors

Doubled die obverse errors occur during die-making when the working hub impresses the design onto the working die more than once in slightly different positions. This creates doubled images of letters, numbers, or design elements on the coin’s obverse.

On Lincoln pennies, the doubling most commonly appears in the date, “IN GOD WE TRUST,” “LIBERTY,” and Lincoln’s profile features.

Strong doubling is seen on the tops of the letters of the motto IN GOD WE TRUST, suggesting that a complete obverse design was hubbed over an incomplete design, with misalignment between the two images.

The famous examples are the 1969-S DDO and 1972 DDO, along with the 1995 doubled die Lincoln cent that surfaced as the first new major doubled die Lincoln cent in more than a decade.

Values range widely. The 1969-S commands thousands of dollars, while a minor but exceedingly rare 1972 Doubled Die Obverse Lincoln cent graded PCGS MS-66 RD sold for $21,811. Less dramatic DDO varieties from other years bring modest to moderate premiums.

Known DDO Error Years for Lincoln Penny:

• 1917
• 1936
• 1955
• 1956
• 1958
• 1959
• 1969
• 1970
• 1972
• 1983
• 1984
• 1995

 

2. Doubled Die Reverse (DDR) Errors

Doubled die reverse errors form the same way as DDOs—multiple hub impressions on the working die at slightly different positions—but affect the reverse.

On Wheat Reverse pennies (1909–1958), doubling appears on the wheat stalks, “ONE CENT,” and “UNITED STATES OF AMERICA.” During the Memorial period (1959–2008), it shows on the columns, steps, or inscriptions. On Shield pennies (2010–present), DDR errors appear in the shield’s vertical stripes, horizontal bands, or surrounding text.

DDR errors are generally less valuable than DDOs because the reverse doubling tends to be subtler and less immediately noticeable. Values typically range from $50–$5,000 depending on year, severity, and grade. The 1983 DDR is among the most valuable, with high-grade examples reaching several thousand dollars.

Known DDR Error Years for Lincoln Penny:

• 1928
• 1950
• 1956
• 1959
• 1983
• 1992
• 1994
• 2005
• 2019
• 2021
• 2022
• 2025

 

3. Repunched Mint Mark (RPM) Errors

When the Mint started using mint marks in the early 1800’s to identify the various branch mints, the mint mark was hand punched into the working dies. A die maker would take a thin steel rod (punch) that had the mint mark engraved on it and manually hammer it into each working die.

If the initial punch wasn’t properly positioned or deep enough, die makers would re-punch, often slightly offset. This created the “shadow” effect known as a “repunched mint mark (RPM) error,” where you can see multiple impressions of the same letter—D/D or S/S varieties.

The 1959 D/D/D RPM FS-501 features three different “D”s; an MS66 RD sells for over $800. The 1968-D/D and 1987-D/D are also well-documented RPMs. Values typically range from $15–$500.

RPMs are historically significant because they represent the last era of hand-crafted die preparation. By the 1990s, computerized processes had largely eliminated them, making earlier varieties increasingly collectible.

Known RPM Error Years for Lincoln Penny:

• 1909
• 1929
• 1930
• 1947
• 1948
• 1956
• 1960
• 1964
• 1970
• 1971
• 1972
• 1974
• 1980

 

4. Repunched Date (RPD) Errors

 

Repunched Date errors were common on Indian Head and early Lincoln cents due to manual die preparation.

Before 1909, mint workers hand-punched dates into softened dies using steel punches and hammers. When initial strikes misaligned or lacked depth, workers repunched at slightly different angles, creating visible doubling or “shadow” digits. Some varieties show triple punching.

Indian cents feature numerous RPD varieties. The 1869/69 offers three (FS-301, FS-302, FS-303), with values averaging $130 in Good condition and reaching $960 in Almost Uncirculated grades.

Most RPDs command modest premiums—a few dollars in worn condition to several hundred for exceptional mint state examples, though values vary based on the variety’s prominence and the coin’s overall grade and preservation.

Strong RPD examples with good preservation remain sought after by variety collectors.

Known RPD Error Years for Penny:

• 1859
• 1864
• 1865
• 1867
• 1868
• 1869
• 1873
• 1875
• 1888
• 1894
• 1899
• 1903
• 1904
• 1906
• 1907
• 1908

 

5. Misplaced Date (MPD) Errors

 

Misplaced Date errors show date digits appearing in unexpected locations—within denticles, protruding from the bust, or embedded in design elements away from the intended date position.

Theories on formation include testing die hardness with preliminary taps, accidentally resting number punches with excessive force on annealed dies, malpositioning of the punch apparatus, or simple positioning errors. Workers typically punched in areas they believed striking would obscure, though this didn’t always work.

The confined workspace was part of the problem. Indian cents offered merely one-eighth inch height for date placement between bust and denticles. A tenth-inch misalignment easily pushed digits into wrong areas, and workers often didn’t bother correcting errors invisible to the naked eye.

The practice ended in 1909 when dates were incorporated into master dies rather than hand-punched into individual working dies.

The 1906 Indian Head cent with digits in denticles has sold for $599 in higher grades; EF45 examples typically bring $30. An 1854 Large Cent showing a partial four below the bust achieved $300 in MS64.

MPDs appear across sixteen Indian Head cent issues, making them reasonably accessible for variety collectors.

Known MPD Error Years for Penny:

• 1863
• 1865
• 1868
• 1870
• 1882
• 1888
• 1903
• 1906
• 1907
• 1908

 

6. Complete Overdates Errors

 

Complete overdates occur when mint workers punched fresh date numerals directly over an existing dated die without removing the previous year’s digits.

Both date layers are clearly visible, with the earlier year’s numbers leaving prominent traces that collectors can spot without magnification. The 1802/0 half cent is a good example—the underlying zero’s circular form completely encircles the punched-in two.

Values vary widely based on scarcity and preservation. The exceptionally rare 1802/0 with Reverse of 1800 commands approximately $38,000 in average condition, with fewer than twenty known specimens. The more common 1802/0 with Reverse of 1802 typically brings around $2,700. The 1918/7-D Buffalo Nickel has reached $250,000 at auction in top grades.

Known Complete Overdate Error Years:

• 1807/6
• 1823/2
• 1867/67
• 1869/69
• 1888/7
• 1894/1894

 

7. Partial Overdate Errors

 

Partial overdates show only fragmentary remnants of the earlier date beneath the newer numerals. These emerged when engravers tried to file down the old date before repunching, though die steel was too hard for complete erasure with period tools.

Detection often requires magnification and proper lighting. Only specific portions may remain visible—curved segments from a zero or the tail of another numeral beneath the newer punch.

The 1811/0 large cent averages around $700 in circulated grades, approximately three times scarcer than the normal 1811 date but still more affordable than complete overdates. Specimens where traces barely register command lower premiums, since authentication difficulty increases as remnants fade.

Known Partial Overdate Error Years:

• 1798/7
• 1800/1798
• 1810/09
• 1811/10

 

8. Over Mint Mark (OMM) errors

An Over Mint Mark (OMM) shows two different, overlapping mintmarks. The obscured one (punched first) is usually thinner and smaller than the definitive mintmark. This distinguishes OMMs from Repunched Mint Marks, where the same letter appears multiple times.

The formation involves deliberate die modification. This may be due to having been weakly punched into the working die or it may reflect an attempt to abrade (remove) the first mintmark before punching in the second.

The most documented examples are the 1974-D/S Lincoln cents, where San Francisco dies were reassigned to Denver due to die shortages. The original “S” was partially ground away before the “D” was punched over it, but remnants of the underlying “S” remain visible under magnification.

OMMs are significantly rarer than RPMs because they require involvement of two different mint facilities. Values range from $200–$2,000+ depending on the visibility of the underlying mint mark and coin grade.

Known OMM Error Years for Lincoln Penny:

1974

 

9. Wrong Planchet Errors (penny on dime planchet, nickel planchet, etc.)

 

Wrong planchet errors occur when Lincoln cents are struck on blanks intended for other denominations. A planchet is the blank disk of metal, featureless except for a slightly raised proto-rim on both sides, used to strike a coin. These result from production line mix-ups where different denomination planchets become commingled in the striking chambers.

The most common varieties include pennies struck on dime planchets (silver-colored cents), nickel planchets (larger, heavier cents), and occasionally foreign planchets. A 1959-D Lincoln cent… was struck on a silver planchet intended for a Roosevelt dime, a clear case of planchet bins being mixed during production.

The rare 1973 Lincoln Penny struck on a dime planchet has been valued at $26,400. Typical wrong planchet errors range from $500–$5,000+ depending on grade and scarcity. Pre-1965 silver dime planchets command additional premiums due to silver content.

These errors are immediately recognizable from their weight, size, and often color differences.

Known Wrong Planchet Error Years for Lincoln Penny:

• 1959
• 1964
• 1969
• 1973
• 1980

 

10. Unplated/Incomplete Plating Errors

 

Unplated errors became possible after 1982, when the Mint transitioned from solid bronze to copper-plated zinc planchets.

These occur when zinc planchets either skip the copper electroplating process entirely or receive insufficient coating, exposing the zinc core. The result is a distinctive silvery-white appearance. Documented examples include unplated 1984 and 1995 Lincoln cents.

Value depends on year and condition. Counterfeits are common—typically created outside the mint by chemically stripping the copper plating from ordinary pennies. Authentication matters here, because the genuine article (never plated) and the fake (stripped after plating) can look similar.

Known Unplated/Incomplete Plating Error Years for Lincoln Penny:

• 1982
• 1983
• 1995
• 1996
• 1997
• 1998
• 1999
• 2000

 

11. Split Planchet Errors

 

A split planchet error occurs when impurities—gas, dirt, or grease—become trapped under the surface of the metal blank during planchet strip preparation, creating a weakness. The contamination compromises structural integrity, and this weak area of the metal may flake, peel, or split because the adhesion is poor.

Splitting can occur before or after striking. The same contamination that creates the weakness might not show up until years later, when environmental factors trigger the final separation. Split planchet errors are normally restricted to planchets composed of a solid alloy, such as U.S. cents and nickels.

Values range from $75–$800+, with complete layer separations or unusual splitting patterns bringing higher premiums.

Known Split Planchet Error Years for Lincoln Penny:

• 1959
• 1960
• 1964

 

12. Defective Planchet Errors

 

A defective planchet has problems that occur before the strike, usually during the planchet manufacturing process—distinguishing them from striking errors.

Defects include incomplete annealing (uneven metal hardness), roller marks from improper strip preparation, pitting from contaminated alloys, and dimensional variations from faulty cutting.

Zinc-core Lincoln pennies are particularly susceptible to plating defects, gas bubbles from electroplating, and core-to-plating adhesion failures. These show up as unusual surface textures, weight variations, or visible core exposure.

Values of these coins typically range from $25–$400 depending on severity. Dramatic examples showing multiple concurrent defects bring more.

Known Defective Planchet Error Years for Lincoln Penny:

• 1959
• 1964
• 1982
• 2005

 

13. Off-Center Strikes Errors (various percentages)

 

Off-center strikes happen when the planchet isn’t properly positioned in the coining chamber. Only a portion of the design gets impressed—part of the coin remains blank while design elements are cut off or missing.

All off-center coins are missing some part of the design on at least one side, which can include lettering, central design detail, or the dentils. Severity is measured by percentage—a 50% off-center strike means half the design is missing.

Value depends on the percentage of off-centering and whether the date remains visible. The value of off-center strikes depends on the amount off-center and the amount of wear. Documented examples include 1968 pennies, 1970-D cents, and 1978 Lincoln pennies, with values ranging from $75–$500+.

Known Off-Center Strikes Error Years for Lincoln Penny:

• 1943
• 1944
• 1958
• 1968
• 1970
• 1975
• 1978
• 1979
• 1981
• 1995
• 2000

 

14. Double Strikes Errors

 

Double strike errors occur when a coin receives two impressions from the dies. The coin fails to eject after the initial strike and takes a second impact—centered, off-center, or rotated—creating overlapping images.

Formation results from mechanical malfunctions in the ejection system. These errors have become increasingly rare since 2002 when the Mint implemented enhanced quality control.

In-collar double strikes typically range from $75–$300, while dramatic off-center double strikes can command $200–$1,000+.

Known Double Strikes Error Years for Lincoln Penny:

• 1962
• 1964
• 1972
• 1974
• 1982

 

15. Multiple Strike Errors

 

Multiple strike errors form when a coin is struck correctly but fails to eject due to a malfunctioning feeder finger—the mechanism that places planchets and removes struck coins. The dies keep striking the coin a second, third, or more times until it’s finally ejected or a mint employee stops the machine.

Coins often move or rotate between strikes, creating overlapping impressions at different orientations. This distinguishes them from doubled die varieties, which originate during die manufacturing rather than striking.

Multiple strike wheat pennies range from $50 to several hundred dollars depending on the number of strikes, condition, and year.

Known Multiple Strike Error Years for Penny:

• 1918
• 1929
• 1935
• 1945
• 1958

 

16. Broadstruck Errors

 

Broadstruck errors occur when a coin is struck without the retaining collar—the metal ring that normally constrains the planchet. Without it, metal flows outward unrestricted, creating coins that are thinner and wider than normal. The complete design must still be present to qualify as a broadstrike rather than an off-center strike.

Values for broadstruck Lincoln cents: they may be worth $9 to $25, depending on how wide and apparent their error looks. A 1999 broadstruck Lincoln cent graded NGC MS64 RD sold for $9.52 in June 2019. More dramatic examples with significant size increases bring more—depending on the denomination and condition, a significant broadstrike can be worth anywhere from $5 to $1,000 and up.

Known Broadstruck Error Years for Lincoln Penny:

• 1911
• 1916
• 1920
• 1936
• 1946
• 1951
• 1965
• 1986
• 1995
• 1999
• 2003

 

17. Brockage Errors

 

Brockage errors feature a mirror image of one side of the design impressed on the other. This occurs when an already minted coin sticks to the die surface instead of falling off, then leaves an impression on the next blank planchet.

When a coin sticks to the upper or lower die a number of brockage strikes may occur from the same coin (which at this stage is known as a “die cap”). The first strike from the “capped die” will result in a “mirror brockage” that will exhibit a perfect incuse mirror image of the design—a sunken, reversed impression instead of normal raised relief.

Mirror brockages in pennies are extremely rare. Examples include a 2020 Lincoln cent brockage error. Clear, dramatic examples can reach thousands of dollars.

Known Brockage Error Years for Lincoln Penny:

• 1970
• 1986
• 1991
• 1998
• 2000

 

18. Uniface Strikes Errors

 

Uniface strikes display a complete design on one side while the other remains blank. This happens when multiple planchets accidentally stack in the striking chamber—the upper planchet receives full impression from one die, while the lower planchet blocks the opposite die. The result is a mint error with normal relief on one side and an unstruck surface on the other.

These are extremely rare because modern feeding mechanisms are designed to prevent stacking, and quality control typically catches them before release.

If the uniface coin is a trial strike, die cap error, or two planchet error, it has strong collector value. The 1984 uniface reverse strike penny error fetches up to $155 or more depending on condition.

Known Uniface Strikes Error Years for Lincoln Penny:

• 1962
• 1971
• 1984

 

19. Die Breaks/Cracks Errors

 

Die breaks and cracks occur when the steel dies develop fractures from metal fatigue, excessive use, or manufacturing flaws. Hairline cracks may begin showing on aging dies — and these cracks on the die can result in raised lines on the coin, appearing as raised metal ridges on struck coins.

Types include interior die breaks (within the design), marginal die breaks or “cuds” (at the rim), and die cracks (linear fractures). When metal flows away from areas affected by die breaks, it creates flatness in the strike—part of the error itself.

Die break varieties have been recorded throughout the series, including 1974-S, 1975-D, and 1979 examples. An example with this error may be worth $5 up to $25. Some are worth $100 or more in higher grades.

Known Die Breaks/Cracks Error Years for Lincoln Penny:

• 1910
• 1918
• 1935
• 1951
• 1952
• 1955
• 1957
• 1958
• 1960
• 1974
• 1975
• 1979
• 1982
• 1995
• 2023
• 2025

 

20. Die Cuds Errors

 

A cud is a specific type of die break—a raised area on the rim caused by a missing piece of the die. When the broken piece falls out completely, the void fills with metal during striking, forming a raised blob on the finished coin.

Lincoln pennies show documented cuds throughout their production, including examples from the 1980s and a recent 2025-S Lincoln Shield cent with a rim cud break on the reverse.

Some die break error coins are worth $100 or more. Values depend on size and location, with larger and more prominent cuds bringing higher premiums.

Known Die Cuds Error Years for Lincoln Penny:

• 1971
• 1980
• 1983
• 2022
• 2023
• 2025

 

21. BIE Errors (die break between B and E in LIBERTY)

 

BIE errors are a die break specific to Lincoln cents, occurring between the letters “B” and “E” in “LIBERTY.” The die break between the B and E looks something like an I, so it’s called B-I-E or BIE error—making “LIBERTY” appear as “LIBIERTY.”

The formation results from metal fatigue causing a crack or chip between those specific letters. Die chips that cause protrusions or blobs to appear on struck coins were unusually common on U.S. coins of most denominations struck during the 1950s and early 1960s.

BIE errors are popular with collectors because they’re easy to spot and occur frequently enough to make collecting feasible. Values vary by year, condition, and prominence.

Known BIE Error Years for Lincoln Penny:

1960

 

22. Die Chips Errors

 

Die chips are small pieces of metal that break away from the die surface, creating raised bumps or irregular protrusions on struck coins. They form from metal fatigue over thousands of striking cycles—as dies age, micro-cracks develop in high-stress areas. Temperature fluctuations accelerate the deterioration. When a fragment breaks free, subsequent coins show a raised blob where the missing piece should have created normal detail.

Die chips differ from die breaks or cuds in scale—they’re typically much smaller and more isolated, appearing as small raised dots rather than the larger features of major die breaks.

Values are generally modest, typically $10–$35 depending on size, location, and prominence.

Known Die Chips Error Years for Lincoln Penny:

• 1960
• 1964
• 1980
• 1990
• 1999
• 2007
• 2009
• 2025

 

23. Die Clash Errors

 

Die clashes result when the coining press malfunctions and the obverse and reverse dies strike each other without a planchet between them. Faint impressions of one die’s design transfer onto the opposite die, and those ghost images then appear on subsequent coins.

Categorized as typical die clashes (TDC) and atypical die clashes (ADC). Values are generally modest—a few dollars to moderate premiums depending on prominence and year. Most examples are collected for their technical interest.

Known Die Clash Error Years for Lincoln Penny:

• 1911
• 1919
• 1925
• 1943
• 1951
• 1953
• 1958
• 1984
• 1991
• 2012

 

24. Standard Strike-Through Errors

 

Standard strike-through errors occur when a foreign object gets between the die and the blank during striking, distorting the finished product. The object plugs the cavity where metal would normally flow, causing missing design elements.

The most common and likely to make its way into circulation is a mistrike known as a strikethrough. The object or substance itself will not be “retained” on the coin—distinguishing standard strike-throughs from retained varieties.

Most struck throughs are extremely small, caused when tiny pieces of dust or other nearly microscopic particles are inadvertently struck into a coin. Identification requires examining areas with missing design details that show clear boundaries and may retain texture impressions from the interfering material.

Values depend on size, location, and visual impact. Errors can occur in any year.

Known Standard Strike-Through Error Years for Lincoln Penny:

• 1943
• 1946
• 1951
• 1953
• 1959
• 1972
• 1990
• 1996
• 2012

 

25. Retained Strike-Through Errors

 

Retained strike-through errors occur when foreign objects become permanently embedded in the coin’s surface during striking. Unlike standard strike-throughs where the object falls away, the material—cloth, grease, paper, wire fragments—becomes fused into the coin under striking pressure.

Documented Lincoln penny examples include a 1970-D cent with retained strike-through error and a 1959-D Memorial cent.

Retained strike-throughs command higher premiums than standard ones because the embedded material is still present on the coin.

Known Retained Strike-Through Error Years for Lincoln Penny:

• 1959
• 1970
• 1971

 

26. Die Cap Errors (obverse/reverse)

 

Die cap errors occur when a coin sticks to the hammer die and, if it remains long enough, spreads around the outside to form what looks like a bottle cap—hence “Capped Die.” The errors progress through stages as the cap continues striking additional planchets.

The first planchet struck after cap formation will show a clear, complete brockage of the obverse design on the reverse face. Subsequent brockages will be increasingly expanded, distorted, and incomplete. Die caps can eventually wear smooth from repeated striking.

Die cap-related errors have been found in pennies from years like 1999 and 1972. Lincoln cent struck through die cap errors are valued at approximately $300 for uncirculated examples, though prices fluctuate by rarity and stage.

Known Die Cap Error Years for Lincoln Penny:

• 1959
• 1972
• 1999

 

27. Fold-Over Errors

 

Fold-over errors occur when a portion of the planchet folds onto itself during striking—either from improper feeding or mechanical issues that cause the blank to buckle. The folded area shows weak or missing design details, while the exposed portion displays normal striking. The fold line is usually visible, and the coin may have irregular shape or thickness variation.

The 1995 Lincoln cent contained this error, in which part of the metal folded during the striking process, causing the metal portion of the coin to be bent in half.

Values vary based on the extent of the fold, year, and condition.

Known Die Cap Error Years for Lincoln Penny:

• 1980
• 1995

 

28. Rotated Die Errors

 

A rotated die error results from one die not being properly oriented relative to the opposing die, so the struck coin has one side rotated at an incorrect angle. This happens when dies are installed off-axis or shift over time.

NGC will recognize rotated die mint errors only if there is at least 15 degrees of rotation. Values vary based on degree, denomination, type, and grade.

Known Rotated Die Error Years for Lincoln Penny:

• 1970
• 1979

 

29. Double Denomination Errors

 

Double denomination errors occur when a struck coin accidentally re-enters the press alongside blanks of another denomination. The most common Lincoln cent examples involve cents overstruck on previously struck Roosevelt dimes, creating hybrid coins showing elements of both denominations.

Lincoln cents overstruck on Roosevelt dimes have appeared on the market with increasing frequency in the past decade, indicating a recurring production issue.

A 1996 Lincoln cent overstruck on a Roosevelt dime graded MS-66 sold for $558.13 at Stack’s Bowers’ 2014 Baltimore auction.

Known Double Denomination Error Years for Lincoln Penny:

• 1959
• 1982
• 1999

 

30. Doubled Ear Errors

 

Doubled ear errors show visible doubling specifically in Lincoln’s ear area—a shadow or secondary impression appearing as overlapping lines. These occur during die production when the hub strikes the working die with minor positional shifts, giving Lincoln’s ear overlapping impressions.

The 1984 Doubled Die Ear variety is the most notable, with circulated pieces commanding over $3,000 for authenticated examples. The 1988 Doubled Ear FS-101 and 1997 Doubled Ear FS-101 are both officially recognized varieties in major reference works.

The focused doubling makes these readily identifiable even without much experience, which contributes to their consistent demand.

Known Double Ear Error Years for Lincoln Penny:

• 1984
• 1988
• 1997

 

31. Flared “G” Errors

 

The “Flared G” is a die variety where the designer’s initials “FG” (Frank Gasparro) on the reverse become distorted during die-making. Excessive die polishing removes metal around the initials, or hubbing pressure causes the letters to spread, creating a distinctively widened “G.”

The most collected example is the 1988 Flared G penny (FS-901). Values typically range from $20–$100+ depending on grade. A 1988 FS-901 Flared G in MS66BN condition has sold for $1,950 at auction.

Known Flared “G” Error Years for Lincoln Penny:

1988

 

32. No FG Errors (over-polishing)

 

“FG” represents the initials of Frank Gasparro, the Lincoln Memorial reverse designer, appearing at the base of the memorial’s right side. No FG varieties result when mint employees polish dies too aggressively—removing clash marks or damage, they accidentally polish away the initials entirely. In severe cases, this also creates a “floating roof” effect where memorial columns are partially removed.

Less commonly, grease or debris filling the die’s recessed areas prevents the initials from transferring.

The 1969-D is particularly notable, typically valued around forty-five dollars in circulated condition. High-grade uncirculated specimens have reached over five hundred dollars at major auctions.

Known No FG Error Years for Lincoln Cents:

• 1969
• 1969
• 1970
• 1970
• 1971
• 1972
• 1977

 

33. Clipped Planchet Errors

 

Clipped planchet is one of the most recognizable coin errors, classified as a “planchet error” in the PDS (Planchet, Die, Striking) system. These coins exhibit flat or crescent-shaped bites taken out of the side.

The formation occurs during blank production. When the coil stock overlaps during the process of punching metal planchets out of their parent metal, clipped planchet mistakes occur at the U.S. Mint. A misfeed can occur when the metal strip is fed through the blanking machine, and the punches sometimes overlap the leading edge of the metal producing a straight clip.

The penny values are determined by the clipped percentage and the state of the coin. Most common clipped planchet Wheat Pennies in average condition sell for $10–$50, while exceptional examples or those from key dates can reach several hundred dollars.

Known Clipped Planchet Error Years for Penny:

• 1920
• 1943
• 1944
• 1950
• 1956
• 1958

 

34. Lamination Errors

 

Lamination errors form during planchet preparation when foreign materials become trapped within the metal structure.

During the preparation of the planchet strip, foreign materials like grease, dirt, oil, slag, or gas may become trapped just below the surface. A lamination is a planchet defect caused when a portion of the planchet metal separates from itself due to impurities or internal stresses.

Metallurgists aren’t quite sure why lamination flaws happen, but most believe that this error results from a planchet’s alloy being contaminated. Over time, coins with lamination flaws begin to peel or crack, with the crack actually being the coin splitting along its horizontal axis.

If too much grease is applied to the die, it can act like a suction cup, and as the die pulls away after pressing the coin, that added suction can easily remove any loose layers of metal, instantly creating a lamination error coin.

Lamination errors on 1945 cents typically sell for $90–$160. A 1919 wheat penny with a lamination crack on the obverse can sell for about $110, depending on condition and extent. Small laminations are fairly common on cents struck during the 1940s and 50s but do not command a high premium, and in some cases reduce the coin’s value. Larger laminations and larger denominations bring more.

Known Lamination Error Years for Penny:

• 1919
• 1920
• 1941
• 1944
• 1945
• 1955
• 1958

 

35. Weak “D“ Errors

 

Weak “D” errors result from die deterioration. According to The Official Red Book, in 1922 the Denver mint struck pennies using heavily worn dies, resulting in many Lincoln cents with dull features and a “weak D” mintmark.

Historically, mintmarks were added by individual iron punches—technicians positioned a small steel rod with the mirror image and struck it with a hammer. If the image wasn’t strong enough, they’d punch again, but die wear over time could still weaken the element. Missing or weak features can also result from grease plugging the cavity where metal would normally flow.

The most famous example is the 1922 Weak D Lincoln cent, where heavily worn dies created both weak D varieties and complete “No D” varieties worth over $500 each even in poor condition.

A 1956-D penny with a “shadowy D beneath the normal mintmark” would be worth $10–$100 depending on condition, while regular 1956-D pennies are worth less than $1 even uncirculated.

Known Weak “D” Error Years for Penny:

• 1922
• 1956

 

36. Missing Mint Mark Errors

 

Missing mint mark errors occur when coins are struck without the letter identifying their production facility. Genuine examples show uninterrupted flow lines where the mark should appear, distinguishing them from post-mint damage.

Causes vary. Some result from die clashing—when dies strike together without a planchet, employees file down the damage and inadvertently remove the mark. Others involve mint grease filling the cavity. For proof coins, the mark was simply never punched into the die during preparation.

The 1922 No-D Lincoln cent commands $659 to over $19,000 depending on condition. Professional authentication is essential, as counterfeiters sometimes artificially remove mint marks.

Known Missing Mint Mark Error Years for Penny:

• 1922 No-D
• 1990 No-S

 

37. Close AM and Wide AM Errors

 

From 1959 through 1992, all Lincoln Memorial pennies featured “Wide AM” spacing—the letters A and M in “AMERICA” clearly separated. In 1993, the Mint introduced a “Close AM” reverse where these letters nearly touched at their bases. Starting in 1994, business strikes carried Close AM while proofs used Wide AM through 2008.

Errors occurred when dies meant for different coin types were swapped. The 1992 and 1992-D Close AM cents are transitional varieties, likely struck with test dies for the incoming 1993 reverse. Between 1998–2000, some business strikes received proof dies (Wide AM errors), and some proofs got business strike dies (Close AM errors).

The 1992 Philadelphia Close AM is extraordinarily rare with fewer than 20 certified examples. A PCGS MS67RD specimen achieved $25,850 in 2017; even circulated AU55BN examples command $2,500. The 1992-D is slightly more common at 75 graded specimens, with MS65RD pieces bringing $14,100. The 1998–2000 Wide AM business strikes are far more accessible, with over 100,000 believed to exist and lower-grade values of $5–$50.

Close AM errors (should have Wide AM):

• 1992 Close
• 1992-D Close

Wide AM errors (should have Close AM):

• 1998 Wide
• 1999 Wide
• 2000 Wide

Close AM errors (should have Wide AM):

• 1998-S Close
• 1999-S Close

 

38. 1793 Letter/Word Errors-AMERI Errors

 

The “AMERI” error refers to the 1793 Chain Cent where “AMERICA” was abbreviated to “AMERI.” on the reverse—a spacing miscalculation by the engraver. The first dies for America’s inaugural cent were hand-cut, and the engraver failed to allow adequate room for “UNITED STATES OF AMERICA.”

This was a design error, not a striking error, affecting approximately 6,350 coins during the first production run from February 27 to March 12, 1793. An estimated 187 examples survive across all grades.

Even heavily worn examples in Good condition sell for thousands. Problem-free Fine examples can command thirty thousand to fifty thousand dollars. An MS61 sold for $132,000 in 2020; an MS66BN achieved $2,350,000 in 2015.

Identification: the chain motif with fifteen links on the reverse and the abbreviated “AMERI.” inscription. Additional markers include the 13.48-gram weight, 26–27mm diameter, and edge decorated with bars and vines.

 

39. 1807 Comet Errors

 

The 1807 Comet variety (Sheldon-271) is a Draped Bust Large Cent with a prominent raised line connecting the rim to Liberty’s hair just above her hairbow.

The defect formed progressively through die deterioration. The dies first clashed without a planchet, creating clash marks on the obverse. The “comet” flaw then developed behind Liberty’s head, becoming more pronounced as the die aged, eventually accompanied by parallel raised marks and a horizontal crack across the bust.

A fairly common variety among 1807 cents, but high-grade examples remain scarce. Circulated examples typically bring $50–$725; uncirculated specimens can command $6,000–$38,000. A notable MS-63 Brown sold for $24,000 at Stack’s Bowers. Early die states exist without the flaw, making die state verification important.

 

40. 1855 Knob on Ear Errors

 

The 1855 Knob on Ear is a Braided Hair Large Cent variety where a prominent bulge appears on Liberty’s ear—the result of a small chip that broke out of the obverse die during production, creating a void that filled with metal on each strike.

The break grew progressively worse with continued use, creating various die states from subtle to quite dramatic—some late examples show almost a pyramid formation. The variety appears only on coins with the slanted 5s date style and is designated as Newcomb-9.

Average circulated examples sell for around $90. Uncirculated specimens range from $659 to over $1,100 depending on color and condition. The knob is visible to the naked eye. Higher grade examples with original red-brown or full red color are scarcer.

 

41. 1793 Strawberry Leaf Errors

 

The 1793 Strawberry Leaf cent is one of numismatics’ most enigmatic varieties. Above the date, a four-leaf plant cluster replaces the standard three-leaf trefoil sprig. While traditionally called “Strawberry Leaf,” some researchers interpret it as a cotton plant sprig with a cotton boll.

No definitive explanation exists for its creation. Given the experimental nature of 1793 cent production—three different designs were issued that year—it may have been artistic license by an engraver or an early design iteration.

Four specimens survive. One brought $862,500 at auction in 2009; another realized $660,000 in 2020. All known examples show significant circulation wear, confirming they were struck for regular commerce.

 

42. Fraction Errors

 

Fraction errors occur on early cent varieties where the denomination “1/100” appears on the reverse. The “No Fraction Bar” variety is missing the horizontal division bar, leaving the numerals as “1 100” rather than a fraction.

This originated during die preparation when the bar element was omitted from the working die before striking began—a die creation mistake, not wear. Once discovered, the defective die was replaced, but coins already struck had entered circulation.

The 1794 Liberty Cap Large Cent is the best-known example, commanding approximately $720 in average circulated condition. The finest known specimen, graded MS-65 Brown by PCGS, achieved $149,500 at Heritage Auctions in February 2008. The variety is classified as Sheldon-64 with a Rarity-5- designation, indicating 31 to 75 estimated survivors across all grades.

 

In Conclusion

The penny series continues to produce errors despite modern quality control, and earlier series carry their own distinct categories of die varieties and planchet defects. From doubled dies and wrong planchets to overdates and die breaks, these errors document the mechanical realities of coin production across two centuries of American minting—with values ranging from a few dollars for minor die chips to six figures for major rarities.