Finding 1958-D Lincoln Cent Varieties in the Wild: A Cherry Picker’s Guide

Introduction

You don’t always need a dealer to find valuable coins. Here is what to look for when searching through circulation or bulk lots.

The Thrill of the Hunt

Every roll hunter knows that heart-pounding moment when something unusual catches your eye in a pile of ordinary change. The 1958-D Lincoln Cent represents exactly the kind of find that makes roll hunting worthwhile – not because it’s necessarily valuable, but because it teaches us about the subtle variations that can exist in everyday circulation.

Historical Significance

The 1958-D Lincoln Cent was minted at the Denver Mint, as indicated by the “D” mint mark. This particular year falls within the transitional period of Lincoln Cent production, making it an interesting study for collectors examining die wear patterns and minting variations. While not considered a key date, the 1958-D provides excellent examples of common minting anomalies that can be found in circulation.

Identifying Key Markers

When examining your 1958-D Lincoln Cent, pay close attention to the following characteristics:

• Mint Mark Position: The “D” mint mark should be clearly visible below the date on the obverse
• Date Clarity: The date “1958” should be sharp and well-defined
• Die Wear Patterns: Look for signs of die deterioration, particularly around the lettering and Lincoln’s profile

Understanding Machine Doubling

The images you’ve shared show what appears to be machine doubling (also known as strike doubling). This occurs when the die bounces or shifts slightly during the striking process, creating a secondary, slightly offset image. Here’s what to look for:

Machine doubling typically appears as flat, shelf-like secondary images that follow the contour of the primary design elements. Unlike true doubled dies, machine doubling lacks the rounded, shelf-like appearance and doesn’t show the same level of detail in the secondary image.

Value Guide

For a 1958-D Lincoln Cent in circulated condition showing only machine doubling, the retail value is typically around 25 cents. In pristine uncirculated condition, these coins might bring $1-2 from specialized collectors interested in die variations. However, finding buyers for machine-doubled coins can be challenging, as this is a relatively common occurrence.

Market Considerations

While machine doubling doesn’t significantly increase a coin’s value, finding these varieties in circulation is still valuable for educational purposes. Each discovery helps you refine your eye for genuine errors and varieties versus common striking anomalies.

Authentication Tips

If you’re considering submitting your coin to PCGS or another grading service, keep these points in mind:

• Machine doubling is not considered an error that typically warrants certification
• Grading fees often exceed the potential value of common circulated Lincoln Cents
• Focus certification efforts on coins showing genuine doubled dies, repunched mint marks, or other significant varieties

Where to Find These Varieties

Machine doubling can be found in various sources:

• Circulation Rolls: Bank rolls remain the most accessible source
• Bulk Lots: Estate sales and auction lots often contain circulated Lincoln Cents
• Change Jars: Many collectors find interesting varieties in their everyday pocket change

Educational Resources

The image shared in the forum discussion provides an excellent reference for distinguishing between different types of doubling. Save this reference for future use when examining other coins in your collection.

Conclusion

While your 1958-D Lincoln Cent with machine doubling may not be a rare treasure, the experience of finding and identifying it is invaluable. Each coin you examine builds your expertise as a cherry picker, training your eye to spot the subtle differences that separate common varieties from truly rare finds. Keep searching through those rolls and bulk lots – your next discovery might be the one that makes it all worthwhile.

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