1955 Doubled Die Small Cents Lincoln, Wheat Ears Reverse NGC AU-55 BN

Discover a true numismatic treasure with this exceptional 1955 Doubled Die Small Cents Lincoln Wheat Ears Reverse coin, professionally graded by NGC as AU-55 BN. This iconic American rarity stands as one of the most famous error coins in United States history, cherished by collectors worldwide for its dramatic doubling and historical significance.

The 1955 Doubled Die Lincoln Cent is instantly recognizable to seasoned numismatists and beginning collectors alike. Struck at the Philadelphia Mint during the mid-1950s, this error occurred when the working die was improperly hubbed, causing a noticeable shift in the design elements. The result is dramatic doubling visible on the date, legend, and Liberty inscription. Our specimen displays beautiful chocolate brown surfaces typical of the BN (Brown) designation, with strong remaining details that earn its About Uncirculated 55 grade from NGC.

Collectors prize the 1955 Doubled Die Wheat Cent not only for its scarcity but for the story behind its creation. During a time when quality control standards were different than today, a small number of these spectacular error coins escaped the mint and entered circulation. Today, they represent a pinnacle of American numismatics, often compared to other legendary error coins like the 1955/55 Doubled Die variety that continues to captivate enthusiasts more than six decades later.

This carefully preserved example offers an outstanding opportunity to own a genuine piece of minting history. The wheat ears reverse design, which gives this series its popular name, features two elegant stalks of wheat framing the ONE CENT denomination. Combined with Victor David Brenner's iconic Lincoln portrait on the obverse, this coin embodies classic American coinage from the mid-20th century.

Whether you are building a premier Lincoln Cent collection, assembling a set of notable mint errors, or simply seeking a conversation-starting display piece, this 1955 Doubled Die Wheat Penny represents an intelligent addition to any portfolio. Its lasting popularity ensures strong demand among both advanced collectors and those new to the fascinating world of numismatics.

Coin Specifications

• Year: 1955
• Mint: Philadelphia (no mint mark)
• Denomination: 1 Cent
• Composition: 95% Copper, 5% Tin & Zinc
• Weight: 3.11 grams
• Diameter: 19.05 mm
• Edge: Plain
• Designer: Victor David Brenner (obverse and reverse)
• Variety: Doubled Die Obverse (FS-101)
• Reverse Type: Wheat Ears (Lincoln Wheat Cent)
• Grade: AU-55 BN (About Uncirculated 55 Brown)
• Certification: NGC (Numismatic Guaranty Company)

Historical Background

The 1955 Doubled Die Cent emerged during the early postwar period when the United States Mint was producing billions of coins to meet growing commercial demand. The variety was created when a hub and die pair were improperly aligned during the hubbing process, resulting in a dramatic offset of all design elements on the obverse die. This error was not discovered until the coins had already entered circulation, making surviving examples particularly special to collectors.

Initially, many of these coins were found in cigarette vending machine payouts in the Northeast, leading to their rapid discovery by alert collectors. The dramatic nature of the doubling, particularly visible in the date "1955" and the word "LIBERTY," captured the imagination of the numismatic community. Within months of its discovery, the 1955 Doubled Die became one of the most publicized and sought-after coins in America.

Today, the 1955 Doubled Die Lincoln Wheat Cent remains a cornerstone of many prestigious collections. Its combination of historical importance, visual distinctiveness, and genuine scarcity continues to drive collector interest across multiple generations. NGC certification provides peace of mind, ensuring the coin's authenticity and condition are professionally verified by the industry's leading third-party grading service.

This AU-55 BN specimen represents an ideal balance of quality and value. The coin displays moderate wear consistent with its grade while retaining substantial original detail and attractive chocolate brown coloration. For investors and collectors alike, few coins offer the same combination of historical significance, visual appeal, and long-term appreciation potential as this legendary American Doubled Die error cent.