1972 1C Doubled Die Obverse, RD MS(PCGS#2950)

Spring 2026 Showcase Auction U.S. Coins

Auctioneer

Stack's Bowers

Lot Number

4158

Grade

MS67+RD

Price

6,600

Lot Description

Extraordinary and rare Superb Gem quality for this well known Lincoln cent Doubled Die Obverse variety. Handsome pinkish-red and apricot colors flow over surfaces that are both smartly impressed and expertly preserved. At MS-67+ Red, this piece is among the very finest certified for the variety, with just a single coin ranking finer at PCGS. It surely represents a crowning jewel for advanced Set Registry participants.<p>After only the 1955 Doubled Die Obverse, the 1972 FS-101 is the most famous Doubled Die variety in the entire Lincoln cent series. There are actually several Doubled Die Obverse varieties known for this issue, but FS-101 is by far the most visually dramatic and commands the strongest premium among collectors. The first examples had been confirmed by numismatists by July of 1972, at the latest, with the greatest distributions coming in Indiana and Pennsylvania. By August of that year this variety was so well known that it was already trading on dealer teletypes. The early discovery, widespread publication in the hobby and extensive releases resulted in many Mint State examples being preserved. So many, in fact, that the 1972 FS-101 is readily obtainable in grades up to and including MS-66 RD. However, premium Superb Gems like the present coin are incredibly rare.<p>