The 1955 Doubled Die Obverse Lincoln Cent (DDO‑001) is one of the most famous and visually dramatic minting errors in American numismatics. The doubling is unmistakable—“LIBERTY” and “IN GOD WE TRUST” appear with full separation and shadow-like repetition, creating a visual anomaly that stunned collectors when it first appeared in circulation. Unlike subtler die varieties, this one was immediately recognized by the public, sparking widespread interest and elevating the coin to icon status. It remains the most celebrated doubled die in the Lincoln series and a gateway variety for error specialists.

This particular specimen, certified PCGS MS65RD and CAC approved, is among the finest known. The coin retains full red luster with satiny surfaces and sharply defined devices. The doubling is bold and complete, with no ambiguity in the separation of letters. Lincoln’s profile is clean and undisturbed, and the fields show minimal contact, allowing the dramatic obverse to dominate the viewer’s attention. The coin’s preservation and color saturation make it a reference piece for both variety specialists and registry competitors.

Its placement in the William Corum Collection reflects a commitment to visual intensity and historical resonance. Known for curating coins that combine technical excellence with narrative depth, Corum’s cabinet prioritizes pieces that reward close study and elevate the binder’s monthly cadence. The 1955 DDO‑001 is a perfect fit—an issue that combines mass recognition, mechanical intrigue, and unmistakable diagnostic clarity. Its survival in Mint State Red condition is not just improbable—it’s numismatically iconic.

Auction records for MS65RD examples show consistent demand, and CAC approval further narrows the field to coins with unimpeachable originality. This specimen’s eye appeal and diagnostic strength make it a cornerstone for Lincoln cent specialists. It is a coin that commands attention not through subtlety, but through boldness—a mechanical error that produced artistic intensity. The doubling is so pronounced that it reads almost like a typographic echo, a moment where misalignment became monument.

The Lincoln Cent series is one of the most studied and collected in American numismatics, and the 1955 DDO‑001 stands apart as its most recognizable error. Its fame transcends the hobby, appearing in books, magazines, and even pop culture references. For collectors who specialize in die varieties, it represents the moment when minting mechanics collided with public fascination. Its presence in this collection affirms the value of visual drama and historical significance.

This 1955 Lincoln Cent DDO‑001, PCGS MS65RD CAC, is not just a high-grade survivor—it is a cultural artifact. For collectors and historians alike, it offers a glimpse into the unpredictable mechanics of coin production and the public’s enduring fascination with visible error.