Designer & Design – Designed by Victor D. Brenner, the obverse features Abraham Lincoln’s profile, while the reverse showcases two wheat ears with “ONE CENT” in the center.
Composition & Weight – Made of 95% copper, 5% tin and zinc, weighing 3.11 grams with a 19mm diameter.
Key Variety: 1958 Doubled Die Obverse (DDO) – This rare error shows strong doubling on “IN GOD WE TRUST,” “LIBERTY,” and the date. Only a few exist, making it one of the rarest Lincoln Cent errors.
Value of the Doubled Die Obverse – A genuine 1958 DDO penny can sell for $100,000+ at auction due to its extreme rarity.
Regular Strike Value – Common circulated 1958 pennies are worth 3 to 10 cents, while uncirculated examples in MS65+ condition can sell for $15–$30.
Proof Version – 875,652 proof coins were struck in Philadelphia, highly sought after by collectors. Deep Cameo (DCAM) proofs command higher premiums.
Authentication & Grading – High-grade red (RD) specimens are more valuable than brown (BN) or red-brown (RB) versions. PCGS or NGC certification is recommended for rare varieties.
Investment Potential – While common 1958 cents hold modest value, the 1958 DDO is an extreme rarity, making it one of the most desirable Lincoln Cent varieties for collectors.