kashvault ▲ Mar 19, 2025

1939 Wheat Penny “Missing I In LIBERTY” Double Die B where I in Liberty should be” & other Major Errors

I've had this 1939 Wheat Penny for a while now, and I knew it was pretty special. I kept it tucked away while I built up my Wheat Penny and coin collection in general. Now, I have over 2,500 Wheat Pennies, but I haven't seen one with the same errors, especially for the year 1939. I believe the "I" is missing due to a grease mark. After a couple of years of on-and-off research, I've realized that many of the issues we call errors were created during the strike, particularly the rim errors and the obvious grease mark. There are also issues like the double die, the "T" being deformed, and other lettering problems on the front. On the back, there are additional strike issues, such as the left wheat stalk having an obvious crimp at the top and perfect little holes on the surface that don't penetrate through the entire coin. I’ve counted over a handful of errors on this coin and have talked to several people about its potential price. I've heard various estimates from other coin collectors and dealers, which still leaves the value unknown to me. I'm considering sending it in for grading to get an official analysis from professionals. However, I'm aware that grading fees can be a percentage of the coin's value, and I'm concerned that if the fee is too high, I might not be able to afford it. Alternatively, I could keep it until I'm ready to sell and leave the grading process up to the buyer. I'm still unsure which route to take, so I thought I'd make a few posts in forums and ask for advice from others to get a better idea of what to do in this situation. Any advice or information about my coin and its errors would be greatly appreciated. I'm basing my understanding on extensive research and experience, as jewelry is my main focus and specialty, but coins are another passion of mine that I love to collect and learn about.

1939 Wheat Penny “Missing I In LIBERTY” Double Die B where I in Liberty should be” & other Major Errors
1939 Wheat Penny “Missing I In LIBERTY” Double Die B where I in Liberty should be” & other Major Errors
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echidna78 ▲ Apr 07, 2025

You may also list it online for the best offer and see what potential buyers may offer!

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phillyspeed ▲ Apr 03, 2025

Really tough to tell without seeing it in person tbh. I do see a few errors, cud on the I as you said, possibly a laminate error, pointed nose error? I’d need to see the rim to determine the “T” error. If YOU feel like it should be graded go for it! There’s a flat rate as far as I know, ask your local coin dealer for advice and bring the coin with you in a special holder. (Don’t let it out of your sight for a second!) I hope that helps you..sorry if it doesn’t.

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