How to Spot 2003 D Penny Errors
One of the most sought-after coins of the 2003 era is the double-die penny, or D-penny. Although these coins are rare and can take years to locate, not all of them are valuable. Some of the more obscure varieties are worth only twenty to fifty cents. Of course, that value depends on the variety itself. Nevertheless, finding one with this error is worthwhile. Here are some ways to spot them.
o Find out about the different types of errors on your coin. A 2003 d penny has many types of errors. The compass of the dates may vary. For instance, the 2003 D penny should be made of zinc. This error is technically called a “wrong planchet error” and it is often considered the eighth variety of the year. Its rarity makes it a rarer find. Nevertheless, this error is not so rare as it once was.
o Identify and analyze the types of mistakes. If you find a 2003 d penny with two commas or another digit, the coin is likely to be a mint error. However, if it is, the error is more likely caused by post-mint damage. The first step in identifying and preserving 2003 d penny errors is to determine if they are legitimate. If you find one, make sure to save it as an additional specimen.
o Check the quality of your coins. Many pennies with a 2003 broadstrike error are worth a minimum of $10. Others will be worth as much as $25. Regardless of its condition, these coins are still extremely valuable and can be worth hundreds of dollars. You can also consider purchasing a 2003 d peny that has an error in the broadstrike. While rare, these coins can sell for as much as $15 to $20.
o Know the grade of your pennies. If you have a 2003 d penny, you must know its grade. If you find one with a 2003 d penny that doesn’t have a mintmark, you can be sure it is still worth at least the face value. If it is graded by a reputable grading service, the coin will be worth anywhere from 10 to thirty cents.
o Doubled Die Error: There are some cases where the design of a coin is a duplicate of the original. This occurs when the dies that struck a coin have been accidentally rotated while it was being produced. It can be subtle, or very prominent. This error can greatly increase the value of a coin. In these cases, it is necessary to examine the coins carefully. This way, you will know if they are genuine or not.
