Imagine finding a coin in your pocket that’s worth nearly $5 million. Sounds unbelievable, right? But that’s exactly what could happen if you stumble across the 1983 Double Die Reverse Lincoln penny — a rare coin that has collectors and treasure hunters buzzing with excitement.
Why Is the 1983 Penny So Valuable?
At first glance, the 1983 penny looks like every other one: it has Abraham Lincoln’s face on the front and the Lincoln Memorial on the back. But a small batch made that year has a special minting mistake called a double die reverse. This means the back of the coin was stamped twice by accident, causing the words “ONE CENT” and “E PLURIBUS UNUM” to appear slightly doubled.
Unlike other coin errors that are hard to spot, this doubling can be seen with your own eyes — no magnifying glass needed. Because of this rare error, the coin is now considered a true gem in the world of coin collecting.
A Mistake from a Time of Change
The error came during an important time in U.S. coin history. In 1982, the U.S. Mint stopped making pennies mostly out of copper and switched to zinc with a thin copper coating because copper was getting too expensive. The 1983 penny was part of the new zinc group, and this mistake happened during that early transition.
What makes it even more interesting is that people didn’t notice the error right away. It took years for collectors to realize how special it was — and many of these pennies were likely spent without a second thought.
One Coin, Almost $5 Million in Value
One of these rare pennies was recently valued at a jaw-dropping $4.9 million. It hasn’t sold for that amount yet, but experts say it could fetch that much due to its rarity, condition, and how important it is to coin history.
Only a few of these double die pennies are confirmed to exist, especially in mint condition. So, finding one is like hitting the jackpot — and it’s still possible.
Could It Still Be in Circulation?
Yes! That’s the wild part. Experts believe this rare penny might still be out there in everyday circulation. Some have shown up in regular change over the years because most people don’t know what to look for. But now that the secret’s out, collectors are hunting for them more than ever.
Coin shops and collectors across the country are even offering rewards for people who bring in old coins, just in case one of these hidden treasures shows up.
How to Spot a 1983 Double Die Reverse Penny
If you’re curious and want to check your change, here’s what to look for:
- Date: The coin must say 1983.
- Reverse Side: Look at the back. If the words “ONE CENT” and “E PLURIBUS UNUM” look like they have a shadow or are slightly doubled, you might have a rare one.
- No Mint Mark: These were made at the Philadelphia Mint, so there’s no mint mark (like “D” or “S”) under the date.
- Get It Verified: If you think you’ve found one, don’t spend it! Take it to a coin grading service like PCGS or NGC for an expert opinion.
Final Thoughts
Finding one of these rare 1983 pennies is a long shot — but it’s not impossible. That’s why many people are now digging through old jars, drawers, and piggy banks. One small coin could change your life, and it’s a great reminder that sometimes, treasure is hiding in plain sight.
FAQs
1. How many 1983 Double Die Reverse pennies are known to exist?
Only a small number have been verified by experts, and most are in the hands of private collectors or grading services. The exact number isn’t known, but it’s very rare.
2. Can I find one in regular change today?
Yes, although it’s unlikely. Because they weren’t noticed right away, some may still be out there in circulation. That’s why checking your spare change could be worth it.
3. How can I tell if I have a real double die reverse penny?
Look for doubling in the words “ONE CENT” and “E PLURIBUS UNUM” on the back. If it looks doubled with no mint mark and the year is 1983, it’s worth getting it checked by a coin expert.
4. Where can I get my coin evaluated?
You can send it to professional grading services like PCGS (Professional Coin Grading Service) or NGC (Numismatic Guaranty Company). They’ll inspect, grade, and authenticate your coin.