Could Your 1984 Lincoln Penny
Introduction: From Pocket Change to Collector Value
Did you know that a 1984 Lincoln penny in your spare change could be worth $80 to $300+? 
The 1984 Double Ear Lincoln Cent is a verified mint error, often overlooked by collectors, that can turn an ordinary coin into a valuable numismatic find.
Here’s a step-by-step guide to help you identify and possibly cash in on this rare variety.
Step 1: What Makes the 1984 Penny Valuable?
The Double Ear Error occurs when Lincoln’s ear is struck twice due to a minor die misalignment during minting.
Key features:
- A second, faint earlobe appears beneath the normal ear
- Most examples are subtle and require careful inspection
- Error coins can exist in circulated or uncirculated conditions
Step 2: How to Identify the 1984 Double Ear Penny
Follow these simple steps:
1. Inspect Lincoln’s Ear (Obverse)
- Look at Lincoln’s right ear on the front of the coin
- On the Double Ear variety, you’ll see a tiny extra earlobe below the standard ear
2. Use Magnification
- A 10× jeweler’s loupe, phone macro lens, or magnifying glass is enough
- Proper lighting makes the doubling easier to see
3. Compare Side by Side
- Place a normal 1984 penny next to your suspect coin
- The doubled earlobe should stand out clearly in contrast
Tip: Photos of PCGS-certified Double Ear pennies can help confirm authenticity.
Step 3: 1984 Double Ear Penny Value Guide
| Condition | Estimated Value |
|---|---|
| Raw / Uncertified | $80 – $100 |
| PCGS Certified Mint State | $250 – $300+ |
Example:
- One raw coin sold for $80
- A PCGS-graded Mint State coin sold for nearly $300 at auction
Grading boosts value and collector confidence.
Step 4: How to Submit Your Coin for Grading
Proper certification can significantly increase your penny’s market value.
PCGS Submission Process
- Visit the PCGS Submission Center online
- Follow instructions for sending coins securely
- Place your penny in a protective flip or holder
- Package carefully to prevent damage during shipping
- Track your submission until grading is complete
Higher grade = higher price. Grading can sometimes double or triple your coin’s value.
Step 5: Collector Tips for Best Results
- Check all 1984 pennies you find — this error is more common than you might think
- Never clean your coin — cleaning destroys value instantly
- Store in acid-free holders to prevent damage
- Compare with PCGS Photograde images to estimate grade
Final Thoughts
A 1984 Lincoln penny may look ordinary, but that tiny extra earlobe could turn it into a $300+ collector’s gem.
Keep an eye on your loose change — your next discovery might be worth far more than one cent.
