Here is an example where small things make a big difference. This is an example of a 1972 Lincoln – FS#1c-033.3 (The Big One)

1972 Lincoln Cent, Doubled Die Obverse

When we attribute these, we use very specific diagnostics that have to match up, period…Of course the overall appearance of the coin has to be right.

1972 Doubled Die Obverse - Date

Then we check the date area. We look for the correct notching and grooves. They must be exact. We also look for the doubling on the right side of Lincoln’s jacket such as in the picture above. Next, we look at LIBERTY. Notice how there is less doubling as you move toward the letters TY.

1972 Lincoln Cent Doubled Die Obverse - LIBERTY

Keeping in mind that these coins have been heavily counterfeited, we must examine the obverse of the coin very carefully, then we turn the coin over. It is because counterfeiters either don’t know this or because they can’t duplicate it, that they miss this diagnostic marker on the reverse of the coin. It is extremely small but if it is not there, the coins authenticity is doubtful.

1972 Doubled Die Obverse - Diagnostic Mark

Note the microscopic, fingerlike projection above the D of UNITED, It is on every genuine , undamaged coin. There was a minute scratch in the die that resulted in this little anomaly.

On this coin, it is the combination of diagnostics that allow us to determine if the coin is genuine. If you have an example of one of these, look for the mark above the D and you will find it.

It is also important to note, and I’ve seen it many times before…1972 DDO FS#1c-033.52 has been offered by dealers as “The Big One” because it does have nice doubling but it is not the same as the DDO shown here.

Remember to look for the “finger” above the D which is raised from the surface of the coin to attribute FS#1c-033.3 (The Big One:-)