Mint errors are fascinating anomalies that occur during the coin production process. These mistakes, ranging from small misprints to drastic minting blunders, can transform an ordinary coin into a highly valuable collector’s item.
In this article, we will explore 12 shocking mint errors that have made certain coins worth a fortune. From double denominations to off-center strikes, these errors are rare and highly sought after by collectors worldwide.
12 Shocking Mint Errors
1. 1900 Indian Cent Struck on a Gold Planchet
- Error Type: Wrong Planchet
- Value: $141,000
- Description: This rare Indian cent was accidentally struck on a gold planchet rather than the standard copper. Only three examples of this error exist, making it one of the most sought-after coins by collectors. The finest example sold for an impressive $141,000 in 2013.
2. 2005-D Speared Bison Jefferson Nickel
- Error Type: Die Gouge
- Value: Varies
- Description: This dramatic error features a deep die gouge running across the bison’s back, creating the illusion of a spear piercing the animal. These coins, minted in Denver, can fetch high prices depending on condition.
3. 1999 Lincoln Cent Muled with a Roosevelt Dime
- Error Type: Mule
- Value: $138,000
- Description: A mule error occurs when two different coin designs are struck together. In this case, a Lincoln cent was struck with a Roosevelt dime reverse. Found accidentally in a roll of pennies, this coin sold for $138,000.
4. 1969-S Lincoln Cent Double Die Obverse
- Error Type: Double Die
- Value: $126,500
- Description: This iconic error features significant doubling on the date and the word “LIBERTY” on the obverse. This error occurred due to a misalignment during the die-making process. A high-quality example fetched $126,500 at auction.
5. 1970-S Washington Quarter Struck on an 1898 $5 Gold Coin
- Error Type: Wrong Planchet
- Value: $93,000
- Description: In an incredibly rare minting error, a 1970-S quarter was struck on an 1898 $5 gold coin. The size of the planchet matched the quarter’s die, resulting in a highly valuable and unique coin.
6. 1937-D Three-Legged Buffalo Nickel
- Error Type: Die Polishing Error
- Value: Varies
- Description: Over-polishing of the die caused this nickel to appear as if the buffalo only had three legs. It’s one of the most famous error coins, highly sought after by collectors.
7. 1943 Copper Penny
- Error Type: Wrong Material
- Value: $204,000
- Description: While most 1943 pennies were struck in steel due to wartime copper shortages, a few were mistakenly minted in copper. One of these rare copper pennies sold for $204,000.
8. 2007 Godless Presidential Dollar
- Error Type: Missing Inscription
- Value: Varies
- Description: Due to an omission during minting, the usual inscription “IN GOD WE TRUST” was left off some 2007 Presidential Dollars, earning them the nickname “Godless” dollars. These coins are highly prized by collectors.
9. 1983 Lincoln Cent Double Die Reverse
- Error Type: Double Die
- Value: Varies
- Description: This Lincoln cent features a clear doubling on the reverse side, particularly in the inscriptions. It remains a favorite among collectors due to the dramatic error.
10. 1950-D D Over S Jefferson Nickel
- Error Type: Over Mint Mark (OMM)
- Value: Varies
- Description: This nickel features a “D” mint mark stamped over an “S,” creating a noticeable overlap. Collectors appreciate this coin for its complex minting history.
11. 2001-D Lincoln Cent Muled with a Roosevelt Dime
- Error Type: Mule
- Value: $114,000
- Description: Similar to the 1999 example, this mule error involves a Lincoln cent struck with a Roosevelt dime reverse. Only four examples are known, one of which sold for $114,000.
12. 1971-S Lincoln Cent Double Die Obverse
- Error Type: Double Die
- Value: Varies
- Description: This error features significant doubling on the obverse, particularly in the date and the word “LIBERTY.” Coins with clear doubling can command high prices in the collector’s market.
Table of Notable Mint Errors and Their Values
| Coin | Error Type | Value |
|---|---|---|
| 1900 Indian Cent (Gold Planchet) | Wrong Planchet | $141,000 |
| 2005-D Speared Bison Nickel | Die Gouge | Varies |
| 1999 Lincoln Cent/Roosevelt Dime | Mule | $138,000 |
| 1969-S Lincoln Cent Double Die | Double Die | $126,500 |
| 1970-S Quarter on $5 Gold Coin | Wrong Planchet | $93,000 |
| 1937-D Three-Legged Buffalo Nickel | Die Polishing Error | Varies |
| 1943 Copper Penny | Wrong Material | $204,000 |
| 2007 Godless Presidential Dollar | Missing Inscription | Varies |
| 1983 Lincoln Cent Double Die | Double Die | Varies |
| 1950-D D Over S Jefferson Nickel | Over Mint Mark | Varies |
| 2001-D Lincoln/Roosevelt Mule | Mule | $114,000 |
| 1971-S Lincoln Cent Double Die | Double Die | Varies |
Conclusion
Mint errors represent a fascinating intersection between history, craftsmanship, and sheer chance. These rare mistakes, often overlooked at the time of minting, have turned ordinary coins into valuable treasures, some worth hundreds of thousands of dollars.
Whether due to a wrong planchet, a missing inscription, or a striking mishap, these coins captivate collectors and investors alike.
FAQs
1. What is a mint error?
A mint error is a mistake made during the production of a coin, such as a wrong planchet, double strike, or missing inscription.
2. Why are mint errors valuable?
Mint errors are valuable because they are rare and often unique, making them highly sought after by collectors.
3. What is the most valuable mint error?
The 1943 Copper Penny is one of the most valuable, selling for $204,000.
4. What is a mule error?
A mule error occurs when a coin is struck with dies intended for two different denominations.
5. How can I find a mint error?
Mint errors can sometimes be found in regular circulation, though most are discovered through careful inspection by collectors.
References
- Rare Coin Errors That Are Highly Valuable
- U.S. Mint Error Coins
- Magnificent Mint Errors Sold at Auction
