1959 Penny Error List with Pictures & Value
The 1959 penny error list includes several valuable varieties that collectors seek. Understanding 1959 penny value starts with identifying these errors. This comprehensive guide covers all major 1959 penny error types with pictures and current market values.
1959 Penny Repunched Mint Mark Error
The 1959-D repunched mint mark error is the most common 1959 penny error variety. This error occurs when the D mint mark was punched into the die multiple times in slightly different positions, creating a distinctive doubled appearance where traces of earlier impressions are visible around the final mint mark.
Value Range: MS64RD averages $50, MS65RD approximately $100, MS66RD over $140. The FS-501 variety in MS65 condition sold for $176 at auction.
Identification Tips: Examine the D mint mark below the date with a magnifying glass. Look for doubling or spreading of the letter D, with shadow outlines visible around the primary mint mark. The repunching is most visible in higher grades where surface details are well-preserved.
View Repunched Mint Mark Picture
1959 Penny Double Die Obverse Error
The 1959 penny double die obverse error results from an improperly manufactured coin die that creates two overlapping images on the coin. This error produces noticeable doubling on the word LIBERTY and the date 1959, though the doubling is less dramatic than the famous 1955 doubled die.
Value Range: $50 to $2,000 depending on grade and doubling severity. A Red MS66 FS-104 variety sold for $2,000 at auction.
Identification Tips: Focus on the letters in LIBERTY and the digits in 1959 using 10x magnification. Look for slightly offset duplicate images creating a shadow effect. The doubling may be partial or fully separated depending on the specific die variety. Higher grade coins with clear doubling command significant premiums.
View Double Die Obverse Picture
1959 Penny Wrong Planchet Error
The 1959 penny wrong planchet error is among the rarest and most valuable 1959 penny errors. This dramatic mint mistake occurs when a silver dime planchet was mistakenly fed into the penny press, resulting in a 1959 Lincoln cent struck on silver instead of the standard copper composition.
Value Range: Philadelphia variety: $1,020-$1,057. Denver variety: $1,570.
Identification Tips: The definitive authentication method is weight verification. A 1959 penny struck on a silver dime planchet weighs approximately 2.5 grams compared to the normal 3.11 grams for copper pennies. The coin will also have a silver appearance and the smaller diameter of a dime. Professional authentication is strongly recommended due to the high value and potential for counterfeits.
View Wrong Planchet Picture
1959 Penny Off-Center Strike Error
The 1959 penny off-center strike error occurs when the die and planchet are misaligned during the striking process, causing the design to be struck away from the coin's center. This creates a distinctive crescent-shaped blank area on one side of the coin with part of the design missing.
Value Range: $25 to $300+ depending on the percentage off-center and date visibility. Coins struck 10-50% off-center with visible dates are most valuable.
Identification Tips: Measure how much of the design is missing as a percentage. The most desirable off-center strikes show 10-50% displacement with the date clearly visible. Coins struck more than 50% off-center or with missing dates typically command lower premiums unless extremely dramatic. Look for a complete blank crescent on one side opposite the design area.
View Off-Center Strike Picture
1959 Penny Split Planchet Error
The 1959 penny split planchet error is a striking defect where the planchet separates into layers during or after striking. This occurs due to impurities or lamination flaws in the metal composition, causing the coin to split horizontally along its edge, revealing the interior layers.
Value Range: $50 to $150 depending on the extent of splitting and overall condition.
Identification Tips: Look for visible separation layers around the coin's edge where the planchet has begun to split apart. The splitting may be partial, showing as a raised edge or crack, or complete where layers have fully separated. Examine under magnification to distinguish genuine lamination errors from post-mint damage. The split should show interior metal layers consistent with the original planchet composition.
View Split Planchet Picture
1959 Penny Die Break Error
The 1959 penny die break error occurs when cracks or chips develop in the die during heavy usage, causing raised lines or irregular areas on struck coins. Die breaks can range from minor cracks to major breaks called cuds, where pieces of the die break away completely.
Value Range: Minor die cracks: $5-$20. Major die breaks and cuds: $50-$200+ depending on size and location.
Identification Tips: Look for raised lines, lumps, or blobs on the coin's surface where metal flowed into cracks or voids in the die. Die breaks appear as raised features, not incused marks. Cuds typically appear at the coin's rim where a piece of the die broke away, creating a raised blank area. The letters in UNITED STATES may show deformation if affected by die breaks.
View Die Break Picture
1959 Penny Mule Error
The 1959 penny mule error is one of the most controversial and valuable Lincoln cent varieties. This extremely rare error allegedly shows the 1959 Lincoln Memorial obverse paired with the wheat ears reverse design that was discontinued after 1958, creating an impossible transitional piece.
Value Range: The single known example sold for over $31,000 in 2010, though authenticity remains debated among experts.
Identification Tips: A genuine 1959 mule would display Lincoln's portrait with the 1959 date on the obverse and two wheat ears framing ONE CENT on the reverse. Due to the extreme rarity and high value, professional authentication by major grading services is absolutely essential. Many experts remain skeptical about the legitimacy of this variety. If you believe you have found this error, do not clean the coin and seek immediate expert evaluation.
View Mule Error Picture
How Much is 1959 Penny Error Worth? Coin Identifier I Recommended
Accurately identifying and valuing 1959 penny errors requires expert knowledge and the right tools. Two excellent mobile applications can help collectors authenticate and appraise their coins quickly and accurately.
CoinValueChecker
CoinValueChecker is a comprehensive coin identification and valuation app designed for both beginning and experienced collectors. The app uses advanced image recognition technology to instantly identify coins from photos, providing detailed information about varieties, errors, and current market values. CoinValueChecker features an extensive database covering United States coins including all Lincoln cent errors from 1959 to present. The app provides real-time auction results and price guides updated regularly from major numismatic markets. Users can track their collection values, receive notifications about market changes, and access expert grading tips. The grade estimation tool helps collectors assess coin condition before submitting for professional grading. CoinValueChecker is ideal for quickly scanning through penny rolls to identify potential errors worth investigating further, making it an essential tool for error coin hunters.
CoinKnow
CoinKnow offers a different approach with emphasis on education and community support alongside identification features. This app includes detailed tutorials covering how to identify specific error types like repunched mint marks, doubled dies, and planchet errors. CoinKnow features built-in magnification tools that transform your smartphone camera into a powerful loupe for examining fine details. The app includes a comprehensive coin weight calculator useful for verifying wrong planchet errors where weight difference is critical to authentication. Users can connect with an active community of collectors and experts to share discoveries, ask questions, and get second opinions on questionable finds. CoinKnow maintains extensive photo galleries of authenticated error coins serving as reference standards for comparison. The step-by-step grading guides help users understand the difference between MS64, MS65, MS66 and higher grades. CoinKnow is particularly valuable for collectors who want to develop their expertise in error coin identification rather than just getting quick valuations.
Frequently Asked Questions
What is the most valuable 1959 penny error?
The most valuable 1959 penny error is the rare mule variety featuring the wheat reverse design, which sold for over $31,000 in 2010. The wrong planchet error (struck on silver dime planchet) is also extremely valuable, selling for $1,020-$1,570. For accurate identification and valuation of your 1959 penny errors, download the CoinValueChecker app.
How can I identify a 1959-D repunched mint mark error?
A 1959-D repunched mint mark error shows the letter D struck twice in slightly different positions, creating a doubled or spread appearance. Look for traces of the earlier D impression around the final mint mark below the date. Use a magnifying glass or jeweler's loupe for best results. The CoinKnow app can help you identify and authenticate repunched mint mark errors with its advanced image recognition technology.
What is a 1959 penny double die obverse error worth?
A 1959 penny double die obverse error can be worth $50 to $2,000 depending on grade and doubling prominence. The most valuable example, a Red MS66 (FS-104) variety, sold for $2,000 at auction. Look for doubling on LIBERTY and the date 1959. For expert grading assistance, try the CoinValueChecker app which provides instant grade estimates.
How much does a 1959 penny struck on silver dime planchet weigh?
A 1959 penny struck on a silver dime planchet weighs approximately 2.5 grams, compared to the normal copper penny weight of 3.11 grams. This weight difference is the primary authentication method for this rare wrong planchet error. These coins have sold for $1,020 to $1,570 depending on variety. The CoinKnow app includes a coin weight calculator feature to help verify wrong planchet errors.
Are 1959 penny errors common?
While over 1.89 billion 1959 pennies were minted, significant errors are quite rare. The most common error is the 1959-D repunched mint mark, while wrong planchet errors and mule varieties are extremely rare. Most circulated 1959 pennies are worth face value unless they exhibit a notable error. Download CoinValueChecker to quickly scan your coins and identify potential errors worth investigating further.
What does off-center strike mean on a 1959 penny?
An off-center strike occurs when the die and planchet are misaligned during striking, causing the design to be struck away from the coin's center. The value depends on the percentage off-center (10% to 50% is most desirable) and whether the date is visible. Coins with visible dates command higher premiums. The CoinKnow app features detailed guides on identifying and valuing off-center strikes.
How do I know if my 1959 penny is a mule error?
A 1959 mule penny would show the Lincoln Memorial obverse dated 1959 with the wheat ears reverse design from 1958. This is extremely rare and controversial, with authenticity debated among experts. Only one example has been publicly sold. If you believe you have a mule error, professional authentication is essential. Use CoinValueChecker to document your coin and connect with expert authenticators.
What is the difference between MS64, MS65, and MS66 grades?
MS64 coins show minor contact marks but retain strong luster and eye appeal. MS65 coins have fewer and smaller marks with excellent luster. MS66 coins are nearly mark-free with exceptional surfaces and full luster. Each grade increase can double or triple the coin's value. For 1959-D repunched mint marks: MS64 averages $50, MS65 about $100, and MS66 over $140. The CoinKnow app provides detailed grading tutorials to help you assess your coins accurately.
Where can I sell my 1959 penny error?
You can sell 1959 penny errors through major auction houses like Heritage Auctions, online marketplaces like eBay, coin dealers, or coin shows. For valuable errors, professional grading by PCGS or NGC is recommended before selling. Have your coin authenticated first to establish its value and legitimacy. The CoinValueChecker app can help you determine current market values and connect you with reputable dealers.
What tools do I need to find 1959 penny errors?
Essential tools include a jeweler's loupe or magnifying glass (10x magnification minimum), good lighting, a digital scale for weighing coins, and reference materials showing known error varieties. A smartphone with a quality camera is also helpful for documentation. The CoinKnow app transforms your smartphone into a powerful coin identification tool with built-in magnification, error databases, and expert community support.
Summary
The 1959 penny error list encompasses seven major varieties ranging from common repunched mint marks to extremely rare mule errors. The most valuable is the controversial 1959 wheat reverse mule that sold for over $31,000, followed by wrong planchet errors on silver dime blanks worth $1,000-$1,570. More accessible errors include the 1959-D repunched mint mark ($50-$140), double die obverse ($50-$2,000), off-center strikes ($25-$300), split planchets ($50-$150), and die breaks ($5-$200). With over 1.89 billion pennies minted in 1959, error varieties remain available to dedicated searchers. Proper identification requires magnification, accurate scales, and reference materials. Mobile apps like CoinValueChecker and CoinKnow provide valuable assistance in identifying and valuing these errors. Professional grading by PCGS or NGC significantly increases resale value for premium examples. Most circulated 1959 pennies are worth face value, but discovering a genuine error can yield substantial returns, making roll searching a potentially profitable hobby for patient collectors.
