1958-D Lincoln Cent Authentication Guide: Spotting Machine Doubling vs. Valuable Errors

Introduction

Knowing the specific diagnostic points for this coin is critical, especially with counterfeits flooding the market. The 1958-D Lincoln cent represents one of the most commonly encountered coins in American circulation, yet it continues to generate significant interest among collectors and investors alike. Understanding the authentication markers, weight specifications, and distinguishing genuine errors from common strike anomalies can save both time and money.

Historical Context and Significance

The 1958-D Lincoln cent was minted at the Denver facility, as indicated by the “D” mint mark. This date falls within the transitional period of Lincoln cent production, bridging the gap between the wheat reverse design (which ended in 1958) and the Lincoln Memorial reverse that began in 1959. The Denver mint produced approximately 800 million of these coins, making them quite common in circulated condition.

The coin features Victor David Brenner’s iconic Lincoln portrait on the obverse, with the motto “IN GOD WE TRUST” above the portrait, “LIBERTY” to the left, and the date with mint mark below. The reverse displays two wheat stalks framing the denomination and country name, with “E PLURIBUS UNUM” arching above.

Authentic Specifications and Composition

Understanding the correct specifications is crucial for authentication:

• Diameter: 19.05 mm (0.750 inch)
• Thickness: 1.55 mm
• Weight: 3.11 grams (for copper alloy versions)
• Composition: 95% copper, 5% tin and zinc
• Edge: Plain (smooth)

The 1958-D should weigh precisely 3.11 grams ± 0.13 grams. Any significant deviation from this weight range should immediately raise suspicion about authenticity or potential damage.

Magnetic Properties Test

Since the 1958-D Lincoln cent is composed of 95% copper, it should not be attracted to a magnet. This simple test can quickly eliminate many counterfeit coins that use magnetic base metals. If your coin is strongly attracted to a magnet, it is almost certainly a fake or has been altered with magnetic materials.

Die Markers and Key Diagnostic Points

Die markers are small imperfections or characteristics that appear consistently on coins struck from the same die. For the 1958-D Lincoln cent, several die markers can help authenticate genuine specimens:

Obverse Die Markers:

• Look for the characteristic die polish lines near Lincoln’s shoulder
• Examine the spacing and alignment of the letters in “LIBERTY”
• Check the date positioning relative to the portrait truncation

Reverse Die Markers:

• Examine the wheat stalk details for consistent relief patterns
• Check the “UNITED STATES OF AMERICA” lettering for proper font and spacing
• Verify the “E PLURIBUS UNUM” lettering quality and positioning

Understanding Machine Doubling vs. Genuine Errors

One of the most common points of confusion for collectors involves machine doubling (also called strike doubling or die deterioration doubling). This phenomenon occurs when the die shifts slightly during the striking process, creating a secondary, flat, shelf-like appearance to the design elements.

Characteristics of Machine Doubling:

• Flat, shelf-like appearance extending outward from design elements
• Typically affects multiple design features on the same coin
• Does not show the rounded, raised appearance of true doubled dies
• Often appears more pronounced on one side of the design element

Characteristics of Genuine Doubled Dies:

• Shows clear, rounded doubling with separation between impressions
• Creates a three-dimensional appearance
• Typically affects specific design elements rather than entire surfaces
• Shows consistent doubling patterns across multiple examples of the same die variety

The 1958-D Lincoln cent is particularly prone to machine doubling due to the age and wear of the dies used during this production period. Most examples showing apparent doubling are simply cases of machine doubling rather than valuable doubled die varieties.

Common Fakes and Alterations

Several types of counterfeits and alterations commonly target Lincoln cents:

Altered Mint Marks: The “D” mint mark on 1958-D cents is sometimes removed to create “1958” Philadelphia issues, which are slightly more valuable in high grades. Authentication requires microscopic examination of the mint mark area for tool marks or metal flow patterns inconsistent with original striking.

Cast Counterfeits: These show poor detail resolution, incorrect weight, and often have a porous surface texture. The edges may appear irregular or show casting seams.

Spark Erosion counterfeits: Created using electrical discharge machining, these show distinctive granular surfaces and lack the sharp detail of genuine coins. The devices appear rounded and lack the crisp edges of authentic strikes.

Professional Authentication Methods

While basic tests can be performed at home, professional authentication provides the highest level of certainty:

Visual Examination: Professional graders use 5x to 10x magnification to examine die markers, surface characteristics, and potential alterations. They compare specimens against known genuine examples.

Specific Gravity Testing: This non-destructive test verifies the coin’s density matches the expected composition. Copper-alloy cents should have a specific gravity of approximately 8.8-8.9 g/cm³.

XRF Analysis: X-ray fluorescence spectroscopy can determine the exact metal composition without damaging the coin, verifying the 95% copper, 5% tin/zinc alloy.

Die State Analysis: Experts can determine the progression of die wear and identify specific die states that correspond to authentic production sequences.

Value Assessment and Market Considerations

For typical 1958-D Lincoln cents showing only machine doubling, the market value remains minimal:

• Circulated examples: 5-25 cents
• Uncirculated examples: 50 cents to $2
• Full Red Uncirculated: $5-15

The machine doubling typically adds no premium to these values, as it is considered a common striking characteristic rather than a collectible variety.

Authentication Testing Methods for Collectors

Collectors can perform several tests at home to verify authenticity:

Scale Testing: Use a precision digital scale accurate to 0.01 grams. The coin should weigh 3.11 grams ± 0.13 grams. Significant deviations indicate potential problems.

Sound Test: Genuine copper cents produce a distinctive ringing sound when gently dropped on a hard surface. Counterfeits often produce a dull thud.

Edge Examination: Use magnification to examine the coin’s edge for casting seams, file marks, or other signs of alteration.

Surface Analysis: Look for proper luster characteristics. Genuine copper cents show cartwheel luster when rotated under light. Counterfeits often lack this characteristic sheen.

Conclusion

The 1958-D Lincoln cent remains an accessible entry point for new collectors while presenting interesting authentication challenges for experienced numismatists. Understanding the difference between common machine doubling and genuine errors, knowing the correct specifications, and being aware of common counterfeiting techniques are essential skills for any collector.

While most 1958-D cents with apparent doubling are simply showing machine doubling and have minimal value, the authentication knowledge gained through studying these common examples provides an excellent foundation for identifying truly valuable varieties and detecting counterfeits across all coin series.

Remember that when in doubt about a coin’s authenticity, professional authentication services like PCGS or NGC provide the most reliable verification. The small investment in authentication can prevent costly mistakes and provide peace of mind for collectors at all levels.

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