What is the Real Value of a 1972 Lincoln Cent Doubled Die in Today’s Market?

Historical Significance

The 1972 Lincoln Cent doubled die varieties stand as some of the most recognizable error coins in modern American numismatics. While the legendary 1955 doubled die cent still reigns supreme, the 1972 issues have earned their own devoted following among collectors. These coins emerged during a fascinating transitional period at the U.S. Mint, when new hubbing techniques inadvertently created several distinct doubled die varieties—ranging from common finds to true rarities.

Identifying Key Markers

Based on the forum discussion, this coin appears to be the FS-107 variety, distinguished by the telltale “pimple on the lip” marker. While authentic, this particular variety represents one of the more frequently encountered doubled dies from 1972. The diagnostic sweet spots for these coins include the date, LIBERTY, and IN GOD WE TRUST inscriptions. Forum participants correctly identified this as a minor doubled die—a relatively common occurrence for this year’s production.

Current Market Prices

Drawing from the forum’s collective expertise and current market data, a circulated 1972 doubled die cent (FS-107 variety) typically trades in the modest $2-5 range. This aligns perfectly with the forum member who stated, “The value is, at best, a couple bucks.” The coin’s circulated state, complete with numerous contact marks, significantly impacts its value. As one seasoned collector noted, “The two slashes in the face are enough to keep it at 65 or lower,” suggesting this piece likely grades below the threshold where premium prices begin.

Auction Results

While specific auction results weren’t detailed in the forum discussion, experienced collectors agree that this variety rarely commands significant premiums at auction. The more coveted 1972 doubled die varieties (FS-101 and FS-104) can bring $50-500+ depending on grade, but FS-107 remains a common variety that typically sells for modest premiums over face value.

Investment Potential

The forum discussion offers valuable insights into investment considerations for this coin. Several key points emerge:

• The “$200 added value rule” suggests that only coins with at least $200 in added value are worth submitting for grading
• The consensus that this coin “is not worth encapsulating” reflects the reality that grading costs would exceed any potential return
• The suggestion to “keep it raw” rather than submit to grading services indicates that the market value doesn’t justify certification costs

Factors Driving Value Up or Down

Several factors influence the value of 1972 doubled die cents:

Positive Factors

• Variety attribution (FS-101 and FS-104 command premiums)
• High-grade specimens (MS-65 and above)
• Full Red color for copper cents
• Strong doubling visibility

Negative Factors

• Common variety attribution (FS-107)
• Circulated condition with contact marks
• Evidence of wear or rub
• Minor doubling that requires magnification to see clearly

Professional Grading Considerations

The forum discussion reveals important insights about grading decisions. The consensus is clear: this particular coin does not warrant professional grading. As one experienced collector stated, “The pics aren’t quite enough for me to determine whether or not this is indeed the FS-104 variety. But if it is, it’s worth sending in for grading.” However, subsequent analysis confirmed it as FS-107, which changes the grading equation significantly.

Market Analysis

The current market for 1972 doubled die cents shows a clear hierarchy:

• FS-101: Most valuable, can bring $500+ in high grades
• FS-104: Second most valuable, typically $50-200 in circulated grades
• FS-107: Common variety, $2-5 in circulated condition
• Other varieties: Generally fall between these price points

Conclusion

The 1972 Lincoln Cent doubled die variety (FS-107) represents an interesting piece of numismatic history but offers limited investment potential in its current condition. The forum discussion accurately reflects the market reality: while genuine and collectible, this particular variety in circulated condition simply doesn’t command significant premiums. Collectors should focus on acquiring high-grade specimens of the more valuable varieties (FS-101 and FS-104) for investment purposes, while enjoying common varieties like FS-107 as interesting examples of mint errors without expecting substantial financial returns.

For collectors just starting out, coins like this can serve as excellent learning tools for understanding doubled die varieties and the importance of proper attribution. However, as the forum participants wisely noted, the costs of professional grading would far exceed any potential return on this particular specimen. The coin’s true value lies in its educational and historical significance rather than its monetary worth.

Related Resources

You might also find these related articles helpful:

• Silver & Gold Content of Lincoln Cents: Melt Value vs. Collector Value – Historical Significance The Lincoln cent, first minted in 1909, has undergone several composition changes throughout its…
• Finding Lincoln Cent Errors in the Wild: A Cherry Picker’s Guide – Introduction You don’t always need a dealer to find this. Here is what to look for when searching through circulat…
• Smart Buying Guide: How to Acquire an Off-Center Lincoln Cent Without Getting Ripped Off – Introduction: The Allure of Error Coins If you are looking to add an off-center Lincoln cent to your collection, you nee…