1983 Doubled Die Reverse Lincoln Memorial Cent

The 1983 Doubled Die Reverse is one of the most dramatic and sought-after error coins in the Lincoln Memorial series. Unlike most famous doubled dies, which show doubling on the obverse (front) of the coin, this variety displays bold doubling on the reverse. The words "UNITED STATES OF AMERICA," "ONE CENT," and "E PLURIBUS UNUM" all show strong, clearly separated secondary images. The doubling is visible to the naked eye.

The error was caused during the die-making process when a working die received a second, misaligned impression from the hub. The reverse die that resulted produced coins with unmistakable doubled lettering. The Mint did not catch the error before a quantity of coins entered circulation from the Philadelphia facility.

The 1983 DDR is scarcer than the 1972 Doubled Die Obverse but more available than the 1969-S DDO. Estimates of surviving examples range into the low thousands. The coin trades for significant premiums in all grades, with mint-state red examples commanding the highest prices. Because the doubling is on the reverse, collectors sometimes overlook it at first glance, focusing on the obverse. Turning the coin over reveals the error immediately.

Counterfeits and misattributed coins exist, so authentication by a major grading service is recommended. The 1983 DDR holds an important place in the Lincoln cent pantheon and is one of the few reverse-doubled dies famous enough to be known by its date alone among collectors.