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Coin and Paper Money Collecting/1978-S Proof Set, Lincoln Cent

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Expert: - 11/26/2007


Question

1978-S Proof Lincoln C
I have a 1978-S penny in a proof set holder. I bought this set new from the mint. There seems to be doubling of "IN GOD WE TRUST". Please see the attached photo. I think the doubling is bolder than it appears in the photo but it was difficult to photograph through the holder. Is this simply what you call machine doubling? It really doesn't look as flat as other machine doubling I've been introduced to.
Thanks for your time.

Answer
Hi Bob,

Yes this definitely looks like strike doubling, caused by deterioration of the die.

A true doubled die will have both images at the same height -- this looks like each image is at different levels -- like shelves (or steps) when looked at from the side.

This will have only minimal added value to an interested collector.

Dan

Dan Moore

Expertise

My strong familiarity with all U.S. Mint coins, extensive reference library, and close relationships with many other dealers allows me to identify just about any coin made in the USA. I receive regular updates to all the current price guides -- both wholesale & retail -- to provide accurate values. So, with a good description or pictures, I should be able to identify and value any U.S. coin you have.

Experience

I've been a coin dealer since the 1980's and a coin collector since the 1960's. I specialize in U.S. Silver Coins and have an active online website -- The Working Man's Rare Coins -- http://www.workingmancoins.com -- offering information and inventory in U.S. coins.

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