Are you intrigued by the prospect of enhancing your coin collection with 2020 penny errors? Wondering which of these tiny copper treasures might hold significant monetary value?
Lincoln cents, with their rich historical significance and sentimental appeal, have long captivated collectors. By developing a keen eye for valuable penny errors, you can potentially uncover hidden gems that could substantially boost your collection’s worth.
While most pennies are valued at just one cent, the real excitement lies in uncirculated 2020 penny errors. These unique specimens can command prices well above their face value, depending on the specific error type. Fortunately, the U.S. Mint’s production of billions of 2020-P and 2020-D Lincoln cents for circulation increases your chances of discovering pristine examples.
To assist you in your numismatic journey, we’ve compiled a comprehensive list of 2020 penny errors to watch for. Many of these error coins are reasonably priced, making them accessible to dedicated collectors looking to expand their Lincoln cent assortment.
Join us as we explore the fascinating world of 2020 penny errors that could be worth more than you might expect.
1. 2020 Lincoln Penny Crying Eye Error
Among the intriguing 2020 Lincoln penny errors, the “Crying Lincoln” or “Weeping Lincoln” variety stands out for its striking appearance. This error features a die crack that creates the illusion of tears streaming from Lincoln’s eyes down his cheek, lending an unexpectedly emotive quality to the iconic profile.
Die crack errors occur when the die used to strike the coin develops a crack on its surface. During the minting process, metal flows into this crack, resulting in a raised line on the finished coin. The 2020 production year was particularly prone to such errors due to the immense volume of pennies struck.
The U.S. Mint produced over 7 billion Lincoln cents in 2020 across its Philadelphia and Denver facilities. This massive output likely led to accelerated wear on the dies, increasing the frequency of die crack errors. While common among 2020 pennies, the “Crying Lincoln” variety remains a favorite among collectors for its dramatic visual appeal.
In circulated condition, a 2020 Lincoln penny featuring the crying eye error typically values between $35 and $39. However, the value can increase significantly for uncirculated specimens, especially those with pronounced or unusual tear patterns. Factors such as the error’s prominence, the coin’s overall condition, and current market demand all play a role in determining its worth.
Collectors should note that while this error is collectible, it’s not exceedingly rare. The key is finding examples with clear, well-defined “tears” and minimal wear. As with all numismatic pursuits, authenticity is crucial, so having valuable specimens verified by professional grading services is advisable for serious collectors.
This error serves as a reminder of the fascinating imperfections that can occur during the minting process, turning everyday pocket change into sought-after collectibles.
2. 2020 P Lincoln Penny With Die Crack, Retained Cud, and Inner Die Break Error
This particular 2020 Lincoln penny showcases a fascinating convergence of multiple minting errors, making it a prized find for error coin enthusiasts. The specimen exhibits a trifecta of related flaws: a die crack, an inner die break, and a retained cud error, each contributing to its uniqueness.
The inner die break error is particularly noteworthy. This occurs when a substantial piece of metal detaches from the interior surface of the die, leaving a void. The result on the struck coin is a distinctive, amorphous protrusion, typically located near the center of the penny. This error gives the coin an unusual texture and appearance, setting it apart from standard strikes.
Complementing this is the retained cud error, a less common variation of the more familiar cud error. In this case, a fragment of metal breaks away from the anvil die’s edge but, instead of falling away, remains affixed to the die. This creates a raised, irregular area along the coin’s rim, often described as a “blob” of extra metal.
Adding to the coin’s complexity is a prominent die crack. This vertical fissure extends from the apex of Lincoln’s head toward the coin’s edge, likely a result of die fatigue from the extensive 2020 penny production run.
The Philadelphia Mint (denoted by the ‘P’ mintmark) struck this multi-error penny, underscoring the challenges faced by high-volume minting facilities. In 2020, the Philadelphia Mint alone produced over 3.4 billion Lincoln cents, creating ample opportunities for such errors to occur.
The value of this error coin varies significantly based on its condition. In circulated state, it may command up to $10. However, an uncirculated example could fetch as much as $50 or potentially more, depending on the clarity and extent of the errors. The coin’s value is further enhanced by the presence of multiple, interrelated errors on a single specimen.
For collectors, this 2020-P Lincoln cent serves as a prime example of how manufacturing imperfections can transform an everyday coin into a numismatic treasure. It also provides insight into the complex minting process and the various ways it can go awry, resulting in these intriguing error coins.
3. 2020 Lincoln Penny With Front and Back Strike-Through
Among the various minting errors found on Lincoln cents, strike-through errors stand out for their visual intrigue and the story they tell about the minting process. The 2020 Lincoln penny series is no exception, with several examples of this error type emerging from that year’s massive production run.
A strike-through error occurs when a foreign object inadvertently intrudes between the die and the planchet (blank coin) during the striking process. This intrusion results in the object’s impression being transferred onto the coin’s surface, creating a unique and often visually striking error.
What makes this particular 2020 Lincoln cent exceptional is the presence of strike-through errors on both the obverse (front) and reverse (back) of the coin. This dual-sided error suggests that the foreign object was substantial enough or positioned in such a way that it affected both dies simultaneously during the strike.
The most prominent evidence of this error is visible on Lincoln’s shoulders and the lower portion of his profile on the obverse. The affected areas typically appear as indentations, smears, or unusual textures that deviate from the coin’s intended design. The nature of these impressions can vary widely depending on the composition and shape of the intruding object.
Speculating on the cause, numismatists suggest that the culprit could have been anything from a wood chip to a piece of metal debris or even accumulated dust and dirt. The U.S. Mint’s high-speed production environment, especially during the high-volume year of 2020, increases the likelihood of such foreign materials finding their way into the minting process.
The value of this double-sided strike-through error coin is significant, with a reported sale price of $200. This high valuation reflects both the rarity of having the error on both sides and the clarity of the strike-through impression. Factors influencing the price include the size and distinctiveness of the error, the overall condition of the coin, and its state of preservation (circulated vs. uncirculated).
For collectors, this 2020 Lincoln cent represents more than just a valuable addition to their collection. It offers a tangible connection to the minting process, showcasing the delicate balance between high-volume production and the potential for unique errors. Such coins serve as reminders of the craftsmanship involved in minting and the fascinating imperfections that can result from even the slightest disruption to this precise process.
4. 2020 Lincoln Penny With Die Clash Error
Among the myriad of minting errors that can occur, the die clash error stands out as a fascinating testament to the intricacies of the coin production process. The 2020 Lincoln penny series includes some notable examples of this intriguing error.
A die clash error, sometimes referred to as a die kiss, occurs when the obverse (hammer) and reverse (anvil) dies come into direct contact with each other without a planchet (blank coin) between them. This unintended collision can result in damage to one or both dies, with each potentially imparting a faint impression of its design onto the other. Subsequently, when these damaged dies strike a planchet, the resulting coin bears a ghostly image from the opposite side, creating a unique overlay of design elements.
In the case of this particular 2020 Lincoln cent, the error manifests as a subtle impression of the reverse side’s shield design visible on the obverse. Close examination of Lincoln’s profile reveals faint horizontal lines, mirroring the shield’s distinctive striations. This indicates that during the clash, the reverse (hammer) die left its imprint on the obverse (anvil) die.
The occurrence of die clash errors often increases during periods of high-volume production, as was the case in 2020 when the U.S. Mint struck billions of pennies. The rapid pace of minting can occasionally lead to misalignments or timing issues in the coin press, resulting in these die clashes.
From a collector’s perspective, die clash errors are prized for their subtle yet discernible uniqueness. A circulated example of a 2020 penny exhibiting this die clash error has been reported to sell for around $50, significantly above its face value. Uncirculated specimens, which would show the error more clearly, could potentially command even higher prices in the numismatic market.
The value of such error coins can fluctuate based on factors including the clarity of the clash, the overall condition of the coin, and current market demand. As with all error coins, the distinctiveness of the flaw plays a crucial role in determining its worth.
For coin enthusiasts, these die clash pennies offer more than just monetary value. They provide a tangible connection to the minting process, showcasing the precision required in coin production and the fascinating results when that precision is momentarily disrupted. Collectors are encouraged to scrutinize their 2020 pennies closely – they might just discover one of these subtle yet valuable errors hiding in plain sight.
This type of error serves as a reminder that even in our age of advanced technology and quality control, the minting process can still produce unexpected and collectible anomalies, adding an element of excitement to the hobby of numismatics.
5. 2020 Penny With a Die Break and Broad-struck Error
This 2020 Lincoln cent presents a remarkable combination of two distinct minting errors: a die break and a broadstrike. This dual-error coin offers collectors a fascinating glimpse into the complexities of the minting process and the various ways it can go awry.
The first error, a die break, is relatively common among Lincoln cents, including those minted in 2020. A die break occurs when a crack develops on the surface of the die used to strike the coin. During the minting process, metal flows into this crack, resulting in a raised line or protrusion on the finished coin. In this particular specimen, the die break is prominently visible on Lincoln’s cheek and nose, adding an unexpected texture to the iconic profile.
The prevalence of die breaks in the 2020 penny series can be attributed to the immense volume of coins produced that year. The U.S. Mint struck billions of Lincoln cents, leading to accelerated wear on the dies and increasing the likelihood of such errors.
The second error, a broadstrike, is considerably rarer and more dramatic. This error occurs when a planchet (blank coin) is struck outside of the restraining collar that normally defines the coin’s diameter and edge. Without this collar, the metal spreads outward during the striking process, resulting in a coin with an enlarged diameter and often a less defined edge.
Broadstrike errors can vary in severity, with some coins showing only slight expansion, while others may be significantly larger than standard. The absence of the collar also often results in a thinner coin, as the metal spreads out rather than being constrained to the usual thickness.
The combination of these two errors on a single coin is particularly uncommon. While die breaks are frequently encountered, broadstrikes are much rarer, especially on modern coinage where minting equipment is highly automated and precisely calibrated. Finding both errors on one coin is a stroke of numismatic luck.
The value of such a dual-error coin can be substantial. A circulated example of this 2020 penny featuring both a die break and broadstrike error reportedly sold for $140, a significant premium over its face value. The price reflects not only the rarity of the broadstrike error but also the appealing combination of two distinct error types on a single coin.
For collectors, this coin represents more than just a valuable addition to their collection. It serves as a tangible example of the minting process’s complexity and the fascinating results when multiple factors in that process go awry simultaneously. Such specimens are prized for their educational value, offering insights into coin production and the various ways errors can manifest.
Enthusiasts are encouraged to examine their 2020 pennies carefully. While finding such a dramatic dual-error coin is uncommon, the discovery of one could be both exciting and potentially lucrative. This coin stands as a testament to the enduring appeal of error coins in numismatics, proving that even in modern minting, unexpected and collectible anomalies can still occur.
6. 2020 Lincoln Penny Misaligned Error and Doubled Die
The world of numismatics is often enriched by unique minting errors, and this 2020 Lincoln cent presents an exceptional combination of two rare flaws: a misaligned die error and a doubled die error. This dual-error coin offers collectors a fascinating specimen that showcases the intricacies and potential mishaps in the minting process.
The misaligned die error is an uncommon and visually striking flaw. It occurs when the hammer and anvil dies are improperly aligned during the striking process. In a normal minting operation, both dies should be perfectly aligned to create a coin with properly oriented obverse and reverse designs. However, in this 2020 penny, the misalignment has resulted in a dramatic visual effect: while Lincoln’s profile on the obverse appears upright, the reverse design featuring the shield is rotated 90 degrees from its intended orientation.
This type of misalignment is particularly rare in modern minting, given the advanced machinery and quality control measures in place at U.S. Mint facilities. Its occurrence on a 2020 penny makes it an especially intriguing find for error coin enthusiasts.
Adding to the coin’s uniqueness is the presence of a doubled die error on both the obverse and reverse. Doubled die errors occur during the die manufacturing process, not during the striking of individual coins. When the hub (which imparts the design to the die) makes multiple impressions on the die blank at slightly different angles, it creates a die with doubled features. Coins struck from this die then exhibit doubling on certain design elements.
On this particular 2020 Lincoln cent, the doubling is evident in several key areas. On the obverse, the inscription “LIBERTY” and the motto “IN GOD WE TRUST” show clear signs of doubling. Even more remarkably, the date (2020) and the mint mark (D for Denver) also exhibit this effect. The presence of doubling on both sides of the coin makes this specimen particularly scarce and desirable to collectors.
The combination of these two distinct and significant errors on a single coin is exceedingly rare. This rarity is reflected in its reported sale price of $340, a substantial premium over its face value. Such a high valuation underscores the coin’s appeal to serious collectors and error coin specialists.
For numismatists, this 2020 Lincoln cent represents more than just a valuable addition to a collection. It serves as a tangible example of the complexities involved in coin production and the fascinating results when multiple aspects of this precise process deviate from the norm. The coin offers insights into die preparation, the striking process, and the types of errors that can occur at different stages of minting.
Collectors are encouraged to carefully examine their 2020 pennies, particularly those from the Denver Mint. While finding such a dramatic dual-error coin is highly unlikely, the potential discovery of even one of these errors could be both exciting and potentially valuable. Uncirculated specimens would be especially prized, as they would likely show the errors in sharper detail.
This remarkable error coin stands as a testament to the enduring allure of numismatics, proving that even in an age of highly automated and precise minting, unexpected and highly collectible anomalies can still occur, adding an element of excitement and discovery to the hobby of coin collecting.
7. 2020 Lincoln Shield Penny Broad-strike Off Center Error
The 2020 Lincoln cent series has yielded some fascinating error coins, and this particular specimen showcases two related and visually striking minting flaws: an off-center error combined with a broadstrike. These errors offer collectors a captivating glimpse into the complexities of the coin production process and the various ways it can go awry.
An off-center error occurs when the coin’s planchet (blank) is misaligned with the dies during the striking process. This misalignment causes the design to be struck away from the center of the coin, often leaving a portion of the planchet blank. In this 2020 penny, the off-center error is most pronounced on the reverse, with the shield design noticeably shifted towards the right side of the coin.
The severity of an off-center error is typically measured by the percentage of the design that is missing. Coins with a greater percentage of missing design are generally more valuable to collectors, as they represent more extreme examples of the error. In this case, the off-center error appears to be relatively minor, perhaps around 5% off-center, but still significant enough to be clearly visible and collectible.
Accompanying the off-center error is a broadstrike flaw. A broadstrike occurs when a coin is struck outside of its restraining collar, which normally defines the coin’s diameter and edge during striking. Without this collar, the metal of the planchet spreads outward under the force of the strike, resulting in a coin with an enlarged diameter and often a less defined edge.
The combination of these two errors on a single coin is particularly intriguing. The off-center strike likely contributed to the planchet’s misalignment with the collar, leading to the broadstrike error. This dual-error coin provides a tangible demonstration of how one minting flaw can sometimes cascade into another.
The value of such error coins can vary significantly based on several factors, including the severity of the error, the coin’s overall condition, and current market demand. A 2020 penny with a 5% off-center error reportedly sold for $150, indicating the premium that collectors place on such specimens. It’s worth noting that an uncirculated example of this error coin would likely command an even higher price, as it would showcase the error in sharper detail without the wear and tear of circulation.
For numismatists, this 2020 Lincoln cent represents more than just a valuable oddity. It serves as an educational tool, offering insights into the minting process and the precision required to produce the billions of coins struck each year. The fact that such errors can still occur in modern minting facilities, despite advanced technology and quality control measures, adds an element of excitement to contemporary coin collecting.
Collectors are encouraged to examine their 2020 pennies carefully. While finding such a dramatic dual-error coin is uncommon, even minor off-center or broadstrike errors can be of interest to collectors. As with all error coins, authenticity is key, and having valuable specimens verified by professional grading services is advisable for serious collectors.
This remarkable error coin stands as a testament to the enduring appeal of numismatics, proving that even in the realm of everyday currency, there’s always the potential for discovery and the thrill of finding something truly unique.
8. 2020 Lincoln Assassination Penny With A Die Break Error
Among the myriad of minting errors that can occur, some stand out not just for their rarity, but for their uncanny and sometimes unsettling symbolism. The 2020 Lincoln cent known as the “assassination penny” is one such remarkable example, showcasing how a common error can become extraordinary due to its specific placement.
This particular error coin features a prominent die break that runs from the rim of the coin, through the back of Lincoln’s head, and out through his eye. A die break occurs when a crack develops on the surface of the die used to strike the coin. During the minting process, metal flows into this crack, resulting in a raised line or protrusion on the finished coin.
While die breaks are among the more common minting errors, especially in high-volume production years like 2020, the location of this specific break has imbued the coin with a macabre historical allusion. The line created by the die break eerily resembles the trajectory of the bullet that tragically ended President Lincoln’s life in 1865, hence the coin’s sobriquet of “assassination penny.”
This unintended and somewhat disturbing parallel to a pivotal moment in American history has elevated this particular error coin from a mere curiosity to a highly sought-after numismatic specimen. The coin’s grim nickname and the visual impact of the error have captured the imagination of collectors, driving its value far beyond that of typical die break errors.
The reported selling price of $2,499 for this 2020 “assassination penny” underscores the premium that collectors place on errors with unique characteristics or compelling narratives. This value is significantly higher than what most die break errors would command, highlighting how the specific nature and placement of an error can dramatically influence a coin’s worth in the numismatic market.
For coin enthusiasts, this Lincoln cent serves as a potent reminder of the potential value hidden in everyday currency. It encourages collectors to scrutinize their coins carefully, as even common errors like die breaks can, in certain circumstances, result in highly valuable specimens.
The high value of this coin also reflects broader trends in numismatics, where historical connections, unusual features, and compelling stories often drive collector interest and market prices. In this case, the coin’s unintentional evocation of a tragic historical event has transformed it from a simple minting error into a conversation piece and a unique artifact of both minting history and American cultural memory.
Collectors should note that the condition of such error coins plays a crucial role in determining their value. An uncirculated example of this error would likely command an even higher price, as it would display the die break in sharper detail.
While finding such a specifically placed die break is extremely rare, this coin encourages collectors to pay close attention to the Lincoln cents they encounter. Even if not as dramatically placed as the “assassination penny,” interesting die breaks and other errors can still be valuable finds.
This 2020 Lincoln cent stands as a fascinating example of how minting errors, chance, and historical resonance can converge to create a numismatic rarity of exceptional interest and value. It serves as a reminder that in the world of coin collecting, sometimes the most valuable discoveries can come from the most unexpected places.
9. 2020 Penny With Planchet and Brockage Error
The world of numismatics is often enriched by coins bearing multiple errors, and this 2020 Lincoln cent is a prime example, showcasing two distinct and intriguing minting flaws: a planchet error and a brockage. These combined errors make this penny a fascinating specimen for collectors, offering insights into various stages of the minting process and the ways it can go awry.
The first error, a planchet flaw, occurs during the early stages of coin production. Planchets are the blank metal discs that are struck to become coins. In this case, the error manifests as a flaky, weak spot on the coin’s surface. This flaw typically originates when impurities become trapped under the metal during the planchet preparation phase. Over time, this weak area can develop into a raised, amorphous bump on the coin’s surface.
Planchet errors can vary widely in appearance and severity. Some may be barely noticeable, while others can significantly alter the coin’s surface or structure. In extreme cases, these flaws can lead to lamination errors, where layers of the coin’s metal separate. The presence of a planchet error on this 2020 penny provides a tangible link to the early stages of the minting process, before the coin design is even imparted.
The second error, a brockage, is a more complex and typically rarer flaw. A brockage occurs when a previously struck coin fails to eject from the die and instead adheres to its surface. When the next planchet enters the press, it’s struck between the normal die on one side and the stuck coin on the other. This results in one side of the new coin bearing its normal design, while the other side shows a mirror image impression of the stuck coin’s design.
In this 2020 Lincoln cent, the brockage appears as a subtle imprint of another coin’s design, likely from another Lincoln cent. The clarity and completeness of a brockage can vary greatly, from a faint, partial impression to a full, clear mirror image of the opposing side’s design.
The combination of these two distinct errors on a single coin is particularly uncommon. While planchet flaws are not rare in themselves, finding one coupled with a brockage error creates a uniquely interesting specimen. This dual-error coin offers collectors a chance to observe and study multiple minting irregularities simultaneously.
The reported sale of a circulated version of this dual-error 2020 penny for $35 reflects its appeal to collectors. This price, while modest compared to some rarer error coins, still represents a significant premium over face value. An uncirculated example or one with more pronounced errors could potentially command a higher price.
For numismatists, this coin serves as more than just a collectible oddity. It’s a educational tool, demonstrating the complexity of the minting process and the various points at which errors can occur – from the initial preparation of planchets to the final striking of the coins. It also highlights the importance of quality control in modern minting and the fascination that can arise when these measures occasionally fall short.
Collectors are encouraged to examine their 2020 pennies carefully. While finding such a combination of errors is uncommon, even individual planchet flaws or partial brockages can be of interest to error coin enthusiasts. As always, the condition of the coin plays a crucial role in its collectible value, with uncirculated specimens generally commanding higher prices.
This 2020 Lincoln cent, with its dual errors, stands as a testament to the enduring allure of error coins in numismatics. It reminds collectors that even in modern, high-volume minting operations, unique and collectible anomalies can still occur, adding an element of excitement and discovery to the hobby of coin collecting.
Final Thoughts
Lincoln cents continue to captivate collectors, maintaining their popularity and demand in the numismatic world. While most circulated pennies retain only their face value, the realm of error coins opens up a fascinating and potentially lucrative dimension to collecting these ubiquitous pieces of American currency.
The year 2020, with its massive penny production, proved to be a particularly interesting period for error coins. From subtle die cracks creating the illusion of a “Crying Lincoln” to more dramatic errors like off-center strikes and broadstrikes, the variety of flaws that emerged offers collectors a rich field for exploration and acquisition.
Some of the most intriguing errors from 2020 include:
- Die clashes, where designs from one side mysteriously appear on the other
- Strike-through errors, showcasing impressions of foreign objects
- Misaligned dies resulting in rotated designs
- Doubled die errors, displaying ghostly duplications of inscriptions
- The rare and valuable “assassination penny” with its eerily placed die break
- Complex multi-error coins featuring combinations like planchet flaws and brockages
These errors can significantly increase a coin’s value, with some specimens fetching hundreds or even thousands of dollars. The most valuable tend to be uncirculated examples with clear, pronounced errors, though even circulated error coins can command impressive premiums over face value.
For collectors and coin enthusiasts, this array of 2020 penny errors presents an exciting challenge. It transforms the simple act of checking one’s change into a potential treasure hunt. Each Lincoln cent could be hiding a valuable secret, visible only to the trained and attentive eye.
This exploration of 2020 penny errors serves as a reminder of the enduring appeal of numismatics. It demonstrates that even in our modern era of precise manufacturing, the minting process can still produce unexpected and highly collectible anomalies. For both seasoned collectors and newcomers to the hobby, the hunt for these elusive error coins adds an element of excitement and discovery to the world of Lincoln cents.
So, the next time you handle a 2020 penny – or indeed, any Lincoln cent – take a moment to examine it closely. That ordinary piece of copper-plated zinc in your hand might just be a numismatic treasure, worth far more than its humble one-cent face value suggests. The world of coin collecting is full of surprises, and you never know when you might stumble upon a rare and valuable piece of minting history.