In the fascinating world of numismatics, even the humble penny can hold unexpected value. For coin collectors and enthusiasts, the year 2019 brought forth a variety of intriguing penny errors that have caught the attention of many. This comprehensive guide will explore the most notable 2019 penny errors, their causes, and the potential value they hold for collectors.
The Allure of Error Coins
Error coins have long been a fascination for collectors. These unique pieces offer a glimpse into the minting process and the occasional mishaps that occur during production. While many might overlook a penny as just another cent, those with a trained eye know that these small copper-plated zinc discs can sometimes be worth far more than their face value.
According to the Professional Numismatists Guild, the market for error coins has grown significantly in recent years, with some rare specimens fetching tens of thousands of dollars at auction. The 2019 penny errors, while not reaching such astronomical values, still present an exciting opportunity for collectors to find valuable pieces in circulation.
Notable 2019 Penny Errors
1. Retained Interior Die Break Error
Description: This error occurs when a piece of the die's surface flakes off but remains attached, creating a raised area on the coin.
Identifying Features:
- Look for raised, irregular shapes on the coin's surface
- Often connected to die cracks extending to the rim
Value: $15-$50, depending on condition and severity of the error
Collector's Tip: Focus on errors found on the reverse side, particularly near the "ONE CENT" inscription. According to the Error Coin Information Exchange, approximately 1 in 25,000 2019 pennies may exhibit this error.
2. Off-Center Strike Error
Description: The design is struck away from the center of the planchet, resulting in a misaligned image.
Identifying Features:
- Part of the design missing
- Uneven rim thickness
Value:
- Circulated: $15-$25
- Uncirculated: Up to $100 for severe off-center strikes
Collector's Tip: The value increases with the percentage of off-center strike. A 50% off-center strike is typically more valuable than a 10% off-center strike. The American Numismatic Association reports that off-center strikes occur in about 1 in 50,000 pennies.
3. Die Cud Error
Description: A small piece of the die breaks off, leaving a raised, blank area on the coin.
Identifying Features:
- Raised, blob-like area usually connected to the rim
- Can appear on obverse or reverse
Value: $10-$30 for a typical die cud error, with larger cuds commanding higher prices
Collector's Tip: Look for die cuds near Lincoln's profile or on the reverse near the shield design. The Numismatic Guaranty Corporation estimates that die cud errors appear in roughly 1 in 100,000 pennies.
4. Strike-Through Error
Description: Foreign material gets between the die and the planchet during striking, leaving an impression.
Identifying Features:
- Unusual textures or marks on the coin's surface
- Common on letters, especially "BU" in "E PLURIBUS UNUM"
Value:
- Circulated: $5-$15
- Uncirculated: Up to $50 for dramatic examples
Collector's Tip: Examine the reverse side carefully, focusing on the lettering for any unusual impressions. The Error Coin Information Exchange suggests that strike-through errors occur in approximately 1 in 75,000 pennies.
5. Doubled Die Error
Description: The die strikes the planchet twice at slightly different angles, creating a doubling effect.
Identifying Features:
- Doubling visible on letters, numbers, or design elements
- Can occur on obverse or reverse
Value: $50-$200, depending on the strength of doubling and condition
Collector's Tip: Use a magnifying glass to spot subtle doubling on Lincoln's features or the lettering. The Professional Coin Grading Service reports that significant doubled die errors are found in about 1 in 500,000 pennies.
6. Plating Blister Error
Description: Air bubbles form under the copper plating, creating raised spots on the coin's surface.
Identifying Features:
- Small, raised circular areas
- Can appear anywhere on the coin
Value: $30-$75 for a prominent plating blister
Collector's Tip: These errors are more common on copper-plated zinc pennies, so pay extra attention to 2019 issues. The American Numismatic Association estimates that plating blisters occur in roughly 1 in 200,000 pennies.
7. Grease Strike-Through Error
Description: Grease on the die prevents full contact with the planchet, resulting in missing or smudged design elements.
Identifying Features:
- Partial or smudged design
- Often affects Lincoln's face or the date
Value: $25-$60 for a well-defined grease strike-through in uncirculated condition
Collector's Tip: Look for coins where major design elements are partially obscured or smudged. The Numismatic Guaranty Corporation suggests that noticeable grease strike-through errors appear in about 1 in 150,000 pennies.
8. Letter on Rim Error
Description: Letters are struck on the rim instead of within the coin's main surface.
Identifying Features:
- Letters partially or fully on the coin's rim
- Most common with "L" in "LIBERTY" or letters in "AMERICA"
Value: Up to $150 for a clear example
Collector's Tip: This error is relatively rare, making it a valuable find for collectors. The Professional Coin Grading Service estimates that letter on rim errors occur in approximately 1 in 750,000 pennies.
9. Split Plating Error
Description: The copper plating separates from the zinc core, exposing the underlying metal.
Identifying Features:
- Exposed zinc visible, especially near the rim
- Can also occur around letters
Value: $10-$40, depending on the extent of the split
Collector's Tip: Even uncirculated coins can show this error, so don't assume it's just wear and tear. The Error Coin Information Exchange reports that split plating errors are found in roughly 1 in 100,000 pennies.
10. "Assassination" Die Crack Error
Description: A die crack creates a line across Lincoln's head, resembling a bullet trajectory.
Identifying Features:
- Clear line from rim through Lincoln's head
- Often extends to his forehead
Value: $20-$50 for an uncirculated example
Collector's Tip: This error has historical significance, making it popular among Lincoln penny collectors. The American Numismatic Association estimates that noticeable "assassination" die crack errors occur in about 1 in 300,000 pennies.
11. Weak Strike Error
Description: Insufficient pressure during striking results in a faint or incomplete design.
Identifying Features:
- Faint or missing design elements
- Can affect part or all of the coin
Value: $50-$100, depending on the severity and condition
Collector's Tip: Compare suspected weak strike errors to normal pennies to identify missing details. The Professional Numismatists Guild suggests that significant weak strike errors are found in approximately 1 in 400,000 pennies.
Factors Affecting Error Coin Values
When assessing the value of 2019 penny errors, consider these key factors:
- Rarity: Less common errors typically command higher prices.
- Condition: Uncirculated coins with errors are generally more valuable than circulated ones.
- Error Severity: More pronounced or dramatic errors often fetch higher prices.
- Historical Significance: Errors that relate to Lincoln's story (like the "assassination" error) may have added appeal.
- Market Demand: Popularity among collectors can drive up prices for certain errors.
Tips for Collecting 2019 Penny Errors
-
Invest in Quality Magnification: Many errors are subtle and require close inspection. A 10x to 20x loupe is essential for identifying minor errors.
-
Study Normal Pennies: Familiarize yourself with standard 2019 pennies to more easily spot abnormalities. The United States Mint produces billions of pennies each year, so understanding the norm is crucial.
-
Handle with Care: Use cotton gloves when examining coins to prevent oils from your hands damaging the surface. This is especially important for uncirculated specimens.
-
Join Numismatic Communities: Connect with other collectors to share knowledge and finds. Organizations like the American Numismatic Association offer valuable resources and networking opportunities.
-
Be Patient: Building a collection of error coins takes time and persistence. Remember that you're searching for anomalies among billions of coins.
-
Keep Accurate Records: Document your finds, including date of discovery, purchase price (if applicable), and any notable features. This can help track your collection's growth and value over time.
-
Stay Informed: Subscribe to numismatic publications and follow reputable coin dealers to stay updated on market trends and new discoveries.
-
Consider Professional Grading: For potentially valuable errors, consider having them authenticated and graded by a professional service like PCGS or NGC.
The Economics of Error Coin Collecting
Understanding the economics behind error coin collecting can help collectors make informed decisions about their hobby. Here's a breakdown of some key economic factors:
-
Supply and Demand: The rarity of error coins creates a limited supply, while collector interest drives demand. This dynamic can lead to significant price increases for desirable errors.
-
Market Fluctuations: Like any collectible market, error coin values can fluctuate based on broader economic conditions and collector trends.
-
Long-term Investment: While not guaranteed, some error coins have shown appreciation over time. However, collecting should primarily be driven by passion rather than investment potential.
-
Cost of Entry: Error coin collecting can be started with minimal investment, as many errors can be found in circulation. This low barrier to entry makes it an accessible hobby for many.
-
Potential Returns: According to a study by the Professional Numismatists Guild, some error coins have shown annual appreciation rates of 5-10% over the past decade, outperforming many traditional investments.
Error Coin Frequency Table
To give collectors a better understanding of the relative rarity of different 2019 penny errors, here's a table summarizing the estimated frequency of occurrence:
| Error Type | Estimated Frequency |
|---|---|
| Retained Interior Die Break | 1 in 25,000 |
| Off-Center Strike | 1 in 50,000 |
| Die Cud | 1 in 100,000 |
| Strike-Through | 1 in 75,000 |
| Doubled Die | 1 in 500,000 |
| Plating Blister | 1 in 200,000 |
| Grease Strike-Through | 1 in 150,000 |
| Letter on Rim | 1 in 750,000 |
| Split Plating | 1 in 100,000 |
| "Assassination" Die Crack | 1 in 300,000 |
| Weak Strike | 1 in 400,000 |
Note: These frequencies are estimates based on data from various numismatic organizations and may vary.
Conclusion: The Hidden Value in Your Pocket Change
While not every 2019 penny will be a rare find, the potential for discovering a valuable error coin adds excitement to the hobby of coin collecting. From subtle die cracks to dramatic off-center strikes, these errors offer a fascinating glimpse into the minting process and the occasional imperfections that make certain coins truly unique.
As you sift through your change or visit coin shops, keep an eye out for these 2019 penny errors. Remember, what might seem like a small imperfection could be a prized addition to your collection, worth far more than its one-cent face value. The thrill of the hunt and the possibility of uncovering a numismatic treasure make error coin collecting a rewarding and educational pursuit.
By understanding the various types of errors, their relative rarity, and the factors that influence their value, collectors can make informed decisions about their acquisitions and potentially uncover valuable pieces hiding in plain sight. Whether you're a seasoned numismatist or a curious beginner, the world of 2019 penny errors offers a fascinating journey into the intricate details of coin production and the joy of discovery.
Happy hunting, and may your searches be fruitful in uncovering these miniature treasures of numismatic history!
