A 1955 Lincoln: It’s not every day that loose change in an old coat pocket turns out to be worth a small fortune. But that’s exactly what happened when a worn jacket donated to a secondhand store turned up an unexpected treasure: a 1955 Lincoln Wheat Penny—and not just any penny. This rare coin just sold at auction for a jaw-dropping $775,000.
What seemed like a common copper coin turned out to be one of the most sought-after errors in U.S. coin history, and its discovery has reignited the dreams of collectors and casual coin hunters alike.
The Accidental Windfall
The story began when a thrift store employee sorting donations noticed a handful of old coins in the pocket of a faded wool coat. Among them was a familiar wheat-back penny dated 1955—but it looked odd. The text appeared blurry, almost doubled.
An expert was called in, and after authentication and grading, the penny was confirmed to be the famous 1955 Doubled Die Obverse Lincoln Cent, one of the rarest and most valuable error coins ever produced by the U.S. Mint.
What Is the 1955 Doubled Die Penny?
The 1955 Doubled Die Lincoln cent is legendary among coin collectors. It was the result of a die error at the Philadelphia Mint, where the coin’s obverse (front) die was misaligned during the minting process. This caused the lettering and date to be dramatically doubled, making it one of the most visually striking and easily recognizable errors in U.S. coinage.
Only an estimated 20,000 to 24,000 were released before the mistake was caught, and most ended up in circulation—meaning they were spent, worn down, or lost. High-grade examples are exceedingly rare today, especially those found outside of established collections.
Why It Sold for So Much
This particular penny was in extraordinarily well-preserved condition, graded Mint State 65 (MS65) Red by a top-tier coin grading service. The “Red” designation indicates its original luster is still intact—a rarity for a coin over 65 years old.
Combine that with the popularity of the error, limited quantity, and demand from collectors, and it’s no wonder bidding drove the price to $775,000 at auction.
How to Spot a 1955 Doubled Die Penny
If you’re wondering if you have one of these valuable coins, here’s what to look for:
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Date & Text: The most noticeable feature is the strong doubling of “LIBERTY,” “IN GOD WE TRUST,” and the date “1955.” It’s not subtle—the letters and numbers appear almost shadowed.
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Mint Mark: No mint mark (all were struck in Philadelphia).
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Reverse Side: The wheat stalks and reverse design are normal—only the front has the doubling.
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Condition: Higher-grade coins with minimal wear and full red color are far more valuable.
Could You Be Holding a Fortune?
It’s possible. Many 1955 doubled die pennies are still unaccounted for. They’ve been found in drawers, coin jars, and now, apparently, coat pockets. Even heavily circulated examples can be worth thousands, while high-grade ones—like the one in this story—can command six-figure sums.
Final Thoughts
This remarkable find proves that rare treasures don’t always come from bank vaults or safes—they can hide in the most ordinary places. The 1955 Doubled Die Penny found in a forgotten coat pocket has made history, reminding us that even the smallest coin can carry an enormous story—and value.
So, before you toss your change or donate that old jacket, take a closer look. That penny might just be worth more than its weight in gold.
Disclaimer: Coin values can vary based on condition, rarity, and market demand. Always consult a certified numismatist or grading service for expert appraisal.
FAQ – 1955 Lincoln Wheat Penny Sold for $775,000
Why is this penny valuable?
It has a rare doubled die error on the front, making the date and text appear doubled.
How many exist?
About 20,000–24,000 were released, but few remain in top condition.
How can I spot one?
Look for clear doubling on “1955,” “LIBERTY,” and “IN GOD WE TRUST.” No mint mark.
What should I do if I find one?
Don’t clean it. Get it graded by a professional like PCGS or NGC.