Expert: PAPAJACK - 2/20/2009

Question
Hi, I have a 1978 penny that was printed fine on the front, but the building on the back was printed one..right side up the almost totally upside down.  Can you tell me if this coin is worth much?

Answer
Hello Eva,                     

No this is not common and is usually the result of someone altering the coin.
Is the second image raised the same amount as the first?

The dies that produce coins chose on each other at the same exact time when they impart the design to the coin blank.
The heads and tails are made at the same instant and you could not have a rotated or double image reverse struck on center when the obverse is correctly stamped.

The coin would have to be seen to be properly evaluated but it may be a freak thing with only a novelty value (less than a dollar).

Only error coins made from error dies carry a premium value to collectors, not mechanical miss-haps.

I hope this information helps. Feel free to write me back if you need more information or with any question on USA Coins.

Good Luck
PapaJack