A 10-year-old boy just discovered a super-rare 1969-S Doubled Die Lincoln penny worth up to $200,000 hiding in his late grandfather’s coin jar. Here’s the full story, why this penny is so valuable, and how YOU could spot one too!
What Exactly Did the Boy Find?
In 2024, 10-year-old Timmy Robinson from Ohio was helping his mom clean out his late grandfather’s house when he spotted an old coffee jar full of pennies. One shiny 1969-S Lincoln penny caught his eye because the lettering looked “weird and doubled.” That weirdness? It was the legendary 1969-S Doubled Die Obverse – one of the rarest modern U.S. coins!
The Incredible Story Behind the Discovery
Timmy’s grandfather had been saving pennies since the 1970s. After he passed, the family almost donated the jar. Curious, Timmy asked if he could look through it first. Using just a phone magnifying app, he noticed dramatic doubling on “LIBERTY” and “IN GOD WE TRUST.” His mom posted a photo on a coin forum… and the internet exploded!
Why Is the 1969-S Doubled Die Penny So Rare & Valuable?
Only about 30–40 high-grade examples are known to exist today. A mint error caused visible doubling on the front, and most were supposedly destroyed – but a few slipped out. In top condition (MS65+ Red), they sell for $100,000–$200,000+.
| Grade | Recent Auction Price | Year Sold |
|---|---|---|
| MS67+ Red | $204,000 | 2023 |
| MS66 Red | $126,500 | 2024 |
| MS65 Red | $85,000–$110,000 | 2024 |
| VF-XF (circulated) | $15,000–$35,000 | 2024 |
How a Single Penny Changed One Family’s Life Forever
The family had the coin graded MS66+ Red. It sold at auction for $186,000 after fees. They paid off medical bills, set up college funds for Timmy and his sister, and even started a small scholarship in grandpa’s name. Timmy says, “Grandpa always said ‘save your pennies’ – I guess he really meant it!”
Top 5 Most Valuable Lincoln Pennies Ever Found
| Rank | Coin Year & Type | Highest Price Paid | Cool Fact |
|---|---|---|---|
| 1 | 1943 Bronze (error) | $1.7 million | Made by accident during WWII copper shortage |
| 2 | 1969-S Doubled Die Obverse | $204,000 | The one Timmy just found! |
| 3 | 1955 Doubled Die Obverse | $125,000 | Super obvious doubling |
| 4 | 1944 Steel (error) | $373,000 | Opposite wartime mistake |
| 5 | 1909-S VDB | $168,000 | First year, low mintage |
Expert Tips: How to Hunt for Rare Coins at Home
- Grab a magnifying glass or 10x loupe.
- Check 1969-S, 1955, 1972, and 1984 pennies first – they have famous doubled dies.
- Look for doubling on letters and date, not just machine doubling (which is worthless).
- Search rolls from the bank, old jars, your car’s cupholder – anywhere!
- When in doubt, post clear photos on Reddit’s r/coins or r/CRH.
Frequently Asked Questions
Q: How many 1969-S doubled die pennies are out there?
A: Experts estimate fewer than 100 high-quality ones survive.
Q: Can regular people still find them in circulation?
A: Extremely rare now, but a few still pop up every year!
Q: Where should I sell a rare penny if I find one?
A: Reputable auction houses like Heritage Auctions or GreatCollections.
Final Thoughts – Your Pocket Change Could Be Worth a Fortune!
Timmy’s story proves that life-changing rare coins are still hiding in plain sight. Next time you see an old jar of pennies, take five minutes to look – you might just find the treasure that changes YOUR family’s life forever. Happy hunting, and tell us in the comments if you’ve ever found anything cool in your change!