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Last month, coin collector and CoinWeek reader Johnny Bowen reached out to me about an intriguing error coin he had discovered. The coin in question was a 1980-S Lincoln Cent Proof, one of 3,554,806 Proof Sets produced by the United States Mint that year. Bowen had purchased the set directly from the Mint 44 years ago and noticed early on that the Lincoln Cent displayed an unusual feature not commonly found on coins.
As Bowen explained, the 1980-S Lincoln Cent Proof in his set appeared to have been struck using severely misaligned dies. Curious about its potential value, he wanted to know if the coin might be worth more than the standard market value of around one dollar for an individual Proof Cent.
To evaluate the coin, I asked Bowen to send me high-quality photographs of both sides of the Proof Set. This allowed me to measure the die alignment and confirm that the coin was indeed a genuine Mint Error. After verifying its authenticity, I provided Bowen with submission details for the top three coin grading services. Once the coin is professionally graded and encapsulated, I plan to assist him in connecting with a dealer who specializes in such rare finds and can provide an accurate appraisal.
Bowen decided to submit his intriguing error coin to CACG (Certified Acceptance Corporation Grading), which graded it as CAC PR67RD CAM. The grading process confirmed that the coin was struck with dies rotated 140 degrees clockwise. While the PR67 grade is standard for Lincoln Cent Proofs of this period, the coin did not receive CAC’s Deep Cameo designation due to slight softness in the frost on the lettering of STATES and E PLURIBUS UNUM.
What Is a Rotated Die Error?
Coins struck by the U.S. Mint are crafted with meticulous precision. Under normal conditions, the dies in a coin press are mounted to produce what is known as a “coin turn.” This means that the obverse (heads side) of the coin is mounted right-side up, while the reverse (tails side) is mounted upside down. If you flip a coin vertically, the reverse should align perfectly right-side up.
In the case of a rotated die error, the reverse die is incorrectly aligned, resulting in a rotation of the reverse design. The most extreme rotation possible for a U.S. coin is 180 degrees. Bowen’s 1980-S Lincoln Cent Proof error is notable because its reverse die was rotated 140 degrees clockwise, making it a dramatic and collectible example of this type of error.
Proof Error Coins and the Mint’s Rigorous Standards
The United States Mint is renowned for its exceptional quality control, producing some of the world’s finest coins. This commitment to quality is even more rigorous when it comes to Proof coins, which are specifically made for collectors.
Proof coins are struck individually and handled with extraordinary care to preserve their flawless mirrored surfaces. These coins undergo stringent quality checks, and any that fail inspection are immediately removed and destroyed.
Given these high standards, it’s particularly rare for Proof coins with significant errors, like Bowen’s rotated die coin, to leave the Mint. The dies responsible for this error likely produced multiple coins before the issue was discovered, so collectors with 1980 United States Proof Sets may want to check their Lincoln Cents for similar errors.
What Did He Do with the Coin?
After weighing his options and consulting with several prominent dealers, Johnny decided to work with a specialist in Mint error coins. I connected him with Jon Sullivan of Sullivan Numismatics, a well-regarded dealer based in Land O’ Lakes, Florida, who has extensive experience with error coins.
Sullivan shared his thoughts on the unique nature of Johnny’s coin with CoinWeek:
“Proof rotated dies can be found on a handful of years for most series of Proof coins, but they are always scarce. Most are worth $150-$500. Some of the rarest pieces can be as high as around $1,000. This coin was found in a Proof Set and is an exciting piece for collectors of Proof rotated dies!”
Johnny’s decision to reach out to a dealer specializing in Mint errors highlights the value of expertise when determining the worth of rare coins. His 1980-S Lincoln Cent Proof, with its dramatic 140-degree rotated die, is sure to find a home with a collector who appreciates its rarity and significance
FAQ: 1980-S Lincoln Cent Proof with Rotated Die Error
1. What makes Johnny Bowen’s 1980-S Lincoln Cent Proof special?
This coin is a Mint error featuring a rotated die. The reverse design is misaligned by 140 degrees clockwise, making it a rare and collectible piece.
2. How common are rotated die errors in Proof coins?
Rotated die errors in Proof coins are uncommon and considered scarce. They are rarely found because of the U.S. Mint’s strict quality control standards.
3. What is the typical value range for Proof coins with rotated die errors?
Most Proof rotated die errors are valued between $150 and $500. However, exceptionally rare pieces can fetch up to $1,000, depending on the severity of the rotation and the coin’s condition.
4. How was Johnny’s coin graded?
The coin was submitted to CACG, where it was graded as CAC PR67RD CAM. The PR67 grade reflects the coin’s high quality, although it did not earn the Deep Cameo designation due to slight softness in the frost on some lettering.
5. What did Johnny do with the coin?
Johnny consulted with multiple dealers and ultimately connected with Jon Sullivan of Sullivan Numismatics, an expert in Mint error coins. Sullivan expressed enthusiasm for the coin, citing its rarity and appeal to collectors.
6. Could other 1980-S Proof Lincoln Cents have similar errors?
Yes, since the dies that produced this error likely struck multiple coins, collectors who own 1980 United States Proof Sets are encouraged to check their Lincoln Cents for similar rotated die errors.
7. How should I handle a similar error coin if I find one?
If you discover a coin with a potential Mint error, you should have it evaluated by a reputable coin grading service such as CACG, NGC, or PCGS. Consult a specialized dealer for an accurate appraisal and selling advice.