About the 1972 Doubled Die Obverse FS-101 Penny
The 1972 Doubled Die Obverse FS-101 Lincoln cent is one of the most famous and easily recognized doubled die varieties in the Lincoln cent series. This variety was created during the die-making process when the working die received multiple impressions from the hub that were slightly misaligned. As a result, coins struck from that die display strong doubling on several elements of the obverse design.
On the FS-101 variety, the doubling is especially noticeable on the inscriptions LIBERTY and IN GOD WE TRUST, as well as the date 1972. Unlike many minor doubled die varieties that require magnification to identify, the doubling on this coin is often visible to the naked eye.
While several doubled die varieties are known for 1972 Lincoln cents, FS-101 is by far the strongest and most well-known example. Because of its dramatic doubling and historical significance among modern varieties, the coin remains highly sought after by collectors.
Although billions of Lincoln cents were minted in 1972, only a small number were struck from the doubled die that created the FS-101 variety. As a result, genuine examples can sell for substantial premiums depending on their condition.
How the 1972 Doubled Die FS-101 Was Discovered
The 1972 Doubled Die Obverse FS-101 was discovered shortly after the coins entered circulation when collectors noticed unusual doubling on the obverse lettering.
Unlike many subtle doubled dies, the doubling on FS-101 is strong and easily visible. Collectors examining Lincoln cents quickly realized that certain 1972 pennies showed dramatic doubling on LIBERTY, IN GOD WE TRUST, and the date.
Once the variety became known within the numismatic community, collectors began searching through bank rolls and circulation coins hoping to find examples. Because the doubling is easy to recognize, many specimens were discovered in the years following its identification.
Today, the 1972 FS-101 Doubled Die Obverse remains one of the most famous doubled die varieties among Lincoln cent collectors.
1972 Doubled Die Obverse FS-101 Penny Value
The value of a 1972 Doubled Die Obverse FS-101 Lincoln cent depends largely on the coin’s condition and color designation. Because the doubling on this variety is strong and widely recognized, the coin remains one of the most desirable modern doubled die varieties
Circulated examples typically sell for around $50 to $200, depending on the level of wear. Even well-worn coins are valuable because the doubling is easy to identify and the variety is highly collectible.
Uncirculated coins bring significantly higher prices. Lower Mint State examples, such as MS60 Brown, often sell for around $240, while better preserved coins in MS63 Brown or Red-Brown condition can range from about $375 to $415.
Coins with full Red color command the strongest premiums. An example graded MS63 Red can sell for around $550, while a high-grade MS65 Red specimen may reach roughly $900 or more, depending on eye appeal and surface quality.
Because of the coin’s popularity and value, collectors often recommend having suspected examples authenticated and graded by professional services such as PCGS or NGC.
How to Identify the 1972 Doubled Die Obverse FS-101 Penny
The most reliable way to identify the 1972 Doubled Die Obverse FS-101 is by examining the obverse lettering for strong doubling. This variety shows clear separation on several design elements, making it one of the easiest doubled dies in the Lincoln cent series to recognize.
Unlike minor doubled die varieties that require magnification, the doubling on FS-101 is often visible with the naked eye.
Key Identification Features
Collectors should look for the following characteristics:
- Strong doubling on LIBERTY
- Clear doubling on IN GOD WE TRUST
- Noticeable doubling on the date (1972)
- The doubling appears as a separate image, not flat or shelf-like
The letters in LIBERTY typically show the strongest spread, with the secondary image clearly visible to the east of the main letters. Doubling is also visible throughout IN GOD WE TRUST, particularly on the words GOD and TRUST.
Using a 10× coin loupe or magnifying glass can make the doubling easier to see, but many examples can be identified without magnification.
When comparing a FS-101 coin to a normal 1972 Lincoln cent, the difference is obvious. On a normal coin, the letters appear sharp and single. On the doubled die variety, the letters display a clear secondary outline caused by the misaligned hub impressions during die creation.
Because several other doubled die varieties exist for 1972, collectors should verify that the doubling matches the strong, widespread doubling associated with FS-101, which is the most dramatic and widely recognized variety from that year.
1972 Doubled Die FS-101 Mintage and Rarity
The exact number of 1972 Doubled Die Obverse FS-101 cents produced is unknown. The variety is believed to have resulted from a small number of working dies created during the hubbing process at the Philadelphia Mint.
In total, the United States Mint produced over 2.9 billion Lincoln cents in 1972, making the FS-101 variety only a tiny fraction of the overall mintage.
Because the doubling on this variety is strong and easily recognized, many examples were discovered after collectors became aware of the error. As a result, thousands of specimens are believed to exist today.
Another well known doubled die is the 1995 Doubled Die Obverse Cent. While it is typically more common than the 1972 doubled die, it is more affordable and still has very strong doubling. A nice example can be had for less that $100.
Despite this, the coin remains highly collectible and consistently commands strong prices due to its popularity and historical significance among modern doubled die varieties.
Summary of the 1972 Doubled Die Obverse FS-101
The 1972 Doubled Die Obverse FS-101 Lincoln cent is one of the most famous doubled die varieties in the Lincoln cent series. The variety can be identified by strong doubling on the obverse lettering, particularly in LIBERTY, IN GOD WE TRUST, and the date.
Although billions of Lincoln cents were minted in 1972, only a small number were struck from the doubled die responsible for the FS-101 variety. Because the doubling is easy to recognize and the coin has long been popular with collectors, it remains one of the most sought-after modern Lincoln cent errors.
Even circulated examples can be worth significant premiums, while high-grade uncirculated coins can sell for hundreds of dollars or more depending on their condition and color designation.
If you enjoyed learning about the 1972 FS-101 cent, come check out Our Other articles and Resources on Memorial Cents.
