Doubled-Ear Lincoln Pennies (1984 & 1988)
The 1984 and 1988 Lincoln cents have famous 'doubled ear' doubled-die varieties — clear doubling of Lincoln's earlobe. They are among the most recognizable modern doubled dies.
Doubled earlobe on your Lincoln cent? Check it.
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What to look for
The doubled-ear varieties
- 1984 Doubled Ear — Clear second earlobe below the ear — the more common of the two, worth $150–$300+.
- 1988 Doubled Ear — Scarcer; a strong example has sold for tens of thousands.
- Doubled Die Error Coins — The broader doubled-die guide with more famous examples.
- 1955 Doubled Die Lincoln Penny — The most famous doubled die of all.
Doubled earlobe on your Lincoln cent? Check it.
Snap a photo and Coin AI identifies the coin, estimates its grade, and gives a value range in seconds.
Frequently asked questions
What is a doubled ear penny?
It is a Lincoln cent — most famously from 1984 and 1988 — with a doubled-die obverse that doubles Lincoln's earlobe, leaving a clear second lobe just below the ear. It is a genuine doubled die, not worthless machine doubling.
How much is a 1984 doubled ear penny worth?
Genuine 1984 doubled-ear cents are worth roughly $50–$200 circulated and more in gem mint state. The scarcer 1988 doubled ear is worth more, with exceptional examples selling for thousands.