The 1964-D Lincoln penny (Denver Mint) is normally common, but coins with minting errors have drawn the attention of collectors. These errors include misaligned strikes, repunched mint marks, doubled dies, off-center strikes, and planchet mistakes.
In rare cases, condition and clarity of the error can push the value into the hundreds or even thousands of dollars.
Common Error Types for 1964-D Pennies
| Error Type | What It Looks Like | Why It’s Valuable / How Rare |
|---|---|---|
| Doubled Die Obverse or Reverse (DDO / DDR) | Lettering (such as “LIBERTY” or “IN GOD WE TRUST”), the date, or other design elements appear doubled. | One of the most sought after errors; if very clear and in high condition can fetch high premiums. |
| Repunched Mint Mark (RPM) | The “D” mint mark is punched more than once slightly misaligned, causing shadowing or overlapping D’s. | Less rare and less high-value than doubled dies; value depends on how visible the doubling is. |
| Off-Center Strikes | Coin design is shifted, so parts of design are missing or cut off near edge. | More dramatic misalignment = higher value; small off-center often modest value. |
| Die Cracks / Cuds | Raised lines or missing pieces where die fractured; cuds leave blank raised patches. | Usually lower‐value unless very large or dramatic; condition matters. |
| Wrong Planchet / Other Major Errors | Coin struck on wrong metal blank or blank intended for other denomination. | Very rare; coins with such errors can reach high values if authenticated. |
What These Errors Are Worth in 2025
Here are some approximate values based on recent market data for 1964-D Lincoln penny errors. Note: condition (wear, grading) greatly impacts pricing.
| Error Type | Estimated Value in Circulated to Mid Condition | Estimated Value in High Grade / Collector’s Condition |
|---|---|---|
| Doubled Die Obverse (noticeable doubling) | $25 to $200+ depending on clarity. | Crisp, high-grade example can reach $500 to $3,000 or more. |
| Repunched Mint Mark | $5 to $50 in lower grades. | Upwards of $200-$500 if very clear and well preserved. |
| Off-Center Strikes (mild) | $10 to $100+ depending on how off center. | Dramatic, large edge exposure + good preservation can fetch higher. |
| Die Cracks / Cuds | $5 to several hundred depending on size and visibility. | Larger cracks, well-defined cuds can be more. |
| Wrong Planchet or Huge Error | Rare in population; when verified can sell for $5,000+ in exceptional cases. |
What to Check If You Think You Have an Error
- Condition (grade): The less worn, the better. Coins graded by reputable services like PCGS or NGC often fetch more.
- Clarity of the error: Crisp doubling, clear off-center margin, well-defined mint mark doubling.
- Full date visibility: If part of the date is missing, value usually drops significantly.
- Amount of misalignment (off-center): The more dramatic (say 20-30% or more), the higher the interest and value.
- Authentication: Especially for high-value error coins, provenance and grading are vital.
If you come across a 1964-D Lincoln penny with any notable mint error (doubled die, repunched mint mark, off-center, die cracks, wrong planchet), it’s worth taking the time to inspect. While many errors are modestly valuable, those with clear, dramatic features and good condition can be worth hundreds or even thousands of dollars.
Even coins found in circulation might hold surprising value. Always consider professional grading for high-potential coins. You might be holding more than just spare change.
FAQs
What’s a standard, non-error 1964-D penny worth?
In circulated condition, roughly its face value (about 1 cent). In uncirculated condition, depending on grade, maybe 25 cents to a few dollars.
Can a “mild” error like a small repunched mint mark still be valuable?
Yes—especially if visible. Even mild RPMs can bring $5-$50 or more in lower grades; better condition increases value.
How can I get my penny graded to know if it’s worth thousands?
You would submit it to a professional grading service (PCGS, NGC, ANACS). They assess condition, error severity, authenticity. A high-grade error can dramatically increase value.