In what sounds like a plot twist from a coin‑collector’s dream, a 1969‑S Doubled Die Obverse Lincoln penny was recently pulled from a roll of spare change bought at a bank—and valued at approximately $60,000.
This once‑in‑a‑lifetime find highlights the thrill of coin roll hunting and the hidden treasures that can lie unnoticed amidst everyday pennies.
What Is a 1969‑S Doubled Die Penny?
A Doubled Die error occurs when the mint’s hub and die misalign during the striking process, producing coins with duplicated features.
The 1969‑S Doubled Die Obverse is one of the rarest and most sought‑after varieties of Lincoln cents, featuring obvious doubling on the date, lettering, and design elements—excluding the mintmark (which was punched on after die creation).
Historical Significance
First Discovery (1970): Found in San Francisco‑minted rolls, several original coins were confiscated by authorities under misidentification as counterfeit and later authenticated.
Pop Culture Fame: The coin is frequently cited in numismatic literature and collecting circles. As recently as 2024, a collector discovered an uncirculated specimen worth between $44,000–$100,000, underscoring its continued allure in the rare coin market.
Recent Find: $60,000 in Spare Change
A Colorado man recently purchased $18 worth of penny rolls from a local bank. Among them, nesting coins typical of everyday change, he discovered one with pronounced doubling.
After consulting identification guides and expert graders at ANACS, it was authenticated and valued—realizing a windfall near $60,000.
Grading & Authentication
Grading: Evaluated as Extremely Fine 45 by ANACS.
Diagnostic Features:
- Full doubling on obverse inscriptions and numerals.
- Raised die‑polish lines on the reverse, especially around the words “UNITED” and “AMERICA”.
- No doubling on the mintmark ‘S’, confirming it as a true doubled die rather than a machine doubling.
Market Value & Auction History
| Year | Grade | Auction Price |
|---|---|---|
| 1996 | MS‑65 Red | $16,500 |
| 1998 | VF‑20 | $9,900 |
| 2008 | MS‑64 Red | $126,500 |
| 2012 | AU‑58 | $23,500 |
| 2013 | AU‑58 | $28,200 |
| 2018 | MS‑64 Red | $126,000 |
| 2025 | EF‑45 | ≈ $60,000 (Recent find) |
Recent sales reveal that even circulated examples can command tens of thousands of dollars, while mint-state specimens can fetch six-figure sums.
Why These Pennies Are So Valuable
- Rarity: Only about 40–50 known genuine specimens are estimated to exist.
- Distinct Error: Doubling is visible across the date and inscriptions, unlike typical machine doubling errors.
- Historical Intrigue: Early examples were seized and destroyed by the government due to confusion about their authenticity, adding to their mythos.
- High Demand: Certified and graded examples are prized among collectors and investors alike.
The Finder’s Story
The collector, Bryan Trigg, a hobbyist from Colorado, resumed coin roll hunting after previously finding a 1909 V.D.B. penny. On May 16, 2025, he discovered the 1969‑S Doubled Die in a roll from his local bank.
He verified the error using the Cherrypickers’ Guide and had it authenticated by ANACS on May 28. The coin was confirmed as genuine and graded EF-45.
How to Spot a 1969‑S Doubled Die Penny
- Look for doubling on the words “LIBERTY”, “IN GOD WE TRUST”, and the date “1969”.
- The mintmark ‘S’ will not show doubling—this is a critical diagnostic feature.
- Examine the reverse side for raised die-polish lines, particularly through “UNITED” and “AMERICA”.
- Compare the coin with verified images or consult professional numismatic references.
Coin Roll Hunting: What You Need to Know
Coin roll hunting involves purchasing rolls of coins from banks or stores and sorting through them to find errors or valuable rarities.
Benefits:
- Low-cost entry: face value investment
- Potential for high-value finds
- Educational and fun for hobbyists
Risks:
- Rare finds are extremely uncommon
- Many rolls yield nothing valuable
- Some rolls may be seeded or sorted
Nevertheless, stories like the 1969‑S Doubled Die keep the hunt exciting.
Recent Market Activity
Collectors and YouTubers have reported renewed interest in searching for 1969‑S errors. With market demand rising, even lesser-grade examples have seen increased valuation.
The doubling on these coins is among the most dramatic of any U.S. error, which drives competitive bidding at auctions.
Tips for Aspiring Coin Hunters
- Invest in proper tools: A 10× magnifying loupe and a good light source are essential.
- Study before hunting: Understand error types and genuine coin diagnostics.
- Start small: $20–$50 in penny rolls is a good starting point.
- Keep detailed notes: Record coin dates, varieties, and errors you come across.
- Authenticate professionally: Use services like PCGS, NGC, or ANACS for grading and authentication.
The incredible story of a 1969‑S Doubled Die Obverse penny found in a bank bag of spare change proves that numismatic treasures are still out there waiting to be discovered.
Its rarity, vivid doubling, and dramatic backstory have cemented its place as one of the most valuable and recognizable Lincoln cents ever struck.
Whether you’re a beginner curious about coin roll hunting or a seasoned collector, this coin’s legacy reminds us all that even small change can yield life-changing rewards. Stay sharp, check your coins, and never underestimate the value of a penny.
FAQs
Q1: What is the main difference between a true doubled die and machine doubling?
A true doubled die results from a misaligned hub and die during minting and appears in all coins struck from that die. Machine doubling happens from movement during striking and appears flatter or shelf-like, not raised.
Q2: How much is a 1969‑S Doubled Die penny worth?
Depending on its condition, values can range from $10,000 for well-worn examples to over $125,000 for mint-state coins.
Q3: Can I still find one in circulation?
Yes, although extremely rare. Most have already been pulled from circulation, but some still show up in bank rolls and coin collections that haven’t been thoroughly searched.