A rare 1959-D Mule Lincoln Penny shocked coin collectors by selling for $31,050 at auction. This coin, minted in Denver (that’s what the “D” stands for), is considered one of the most mysterious and valuable errors in U.S. coin history.
Even though most 1959 pennies show the Lincoln Memorial on the back, this unusual coin features the Wheat Ears reverse, which was used before 1959. That’s what makes it a “mule” – a coin that has mismatched designs from different years.
What Makes the 1959-D Mule Penny So Valuable?
In 1959, the U.S. Mint replaced the wheat ears design with the Lincoln Memorial on the back of the penny. So, no official pennies from that year should have the wheat design.
But this rare mule penny features:
- The 1959-D date on the front (obverse)
- The wheat ears reverse that was retired after 1958
This mismatch is what makes the coin extremely rare and valuable.
A Mint Mistake or Something Else?
Many experts believe this coin was the result of a minting error, possibly caused when old dies were accidentally reused. However, because only one known example exists, some collectors have debated whether it might have been made intentionally or unofficially inside the Mint.
Still, the Professional Coin Grading Service (PCGS) has authenticated the coin, making it an official part of U.S. numismatic history.
Sold for Over $31,000
This one-of-a-kind coin was sold for a stunning $31,050 at auction, a testament to its rarity. Collectors are willing to pay huge sums for such errors, especially when they’re confirmed by top grading services.
Is Your Penny Worth Something Too?
While most 1959-D pennies are common and only worth face value, if you ever come across one with a wheat reverse instead of the Lincoln Memorial, get it professionally checked. Who knows — you could be holding a small fortune in your hands.
The 1959-D Mule Lincoln Penny is a rare treasure in the world of coin collecting. With only one known example and a high auction price of over $31,000, it stands as proof that even a small minting mistake can turn an ordinary penny into a valuable collector’s item. If you enjoy collecting or just happen to come across old coins, it’s worth taking a closer look — history and value could be hiding in your pocket change.
FAQ’s
What is the 1959-D Mule Lincoln Penny?
It’s a rare error coin with the 1959-D date and an outdated wheat ears reverse, which should not exist on that year’s penny.
Why is the 1959-D Mule Penny valuable?
Because it’s the only known example with this unique mismatch of designs, authenticated and sold for over $31,000.
How much did the 1959-D Mule Penny sell for?
It sold for $31,050 at auction due to its rarity and collector demand.
Was the 1959-D Mule Penny made by mistake?
Experts believe it was a mint error, possibly made by accident using old dies, but some suspect it may have been intentional.
Can other 1959 pennies be valuable?
Most 1959 pennies are common, but if you find one with a wheat reverse, get it checked — it could be very rare.
I have a 1940 nickel is worth anything and a 1945 wheat penny is it worth anything.