The 1960 penny error varieties represent some of the most exciting finds for coin collectors today. This pivotal year saw the U.S. Mint make a significant change to the date style, creating multiple error opportunities that remain highly collectible.
Accurate identification is crucial for coin collectors who want to maximize the value of their finds. A small detail can mean the difference between a common coin and one worth hundreds of dollars.
Coin scanner apps like CoinKnow can help you identify these errors instantly, provide professional grading, and determine accurate market values.
Rare 1960 Penny Error List & Value
1. 1960 Penny Small Date vs Large Date Variety
The 1960 penny came in two distinct date styles that collectors actively seek. The Mint initially produced coins with a Small Date featuring thick, stocky digits and tight swoops on the 9 and 6.
In March 1960, the Mint switched to a Large Date with thinner numerals and wider swoops. The easiest way to tell them apart is by looking at the zero—the Small Date has a skinnier, more oval zero.
Small Date pennies from Philadelphia are considerably scarcer than their Large Date counterparts. In uncirculated condition, a 1960 Small Date penny can fetch $3 to $20 or more.
The 1960-D Small Date is more common but still worth checking your collection. Look for sharp details and original red luster for maximum value.
Testing the Best Coin Scanner Apps
Distinguishing between Small Date and Large Date varieties, along with other 1960 penny errors, requires precise identification tools. I tested the 10 best coin scanner apps free to evaluate their accuracy in detecting date varieties, overdates, and repunched mint marks. The results showed significant variation in detection capabilities, with the two apps recommended at the end of this article consistently providing the most reliable scanning and grading results.
2. 1960-D Penny Small Date Over Large Date Error
This is the crown jewel of 1960 penny errors. The 1960-D Small Date Over Large Date variety occurred when the Mint stamped a small date hub over a die that already had the large date impression.
You can identify this error by looking for a small zero inside a faint, larger zero. The doubling effect creates a distinctive "donut" appearance in the date area.
Values for this variety range from $200 to $400 or more in uncirculated condition. Well-struck examples with full red color command the highest premiums.
This variety is cataloged as FS-25.5 in the Cherrypicker's Guide. Third-party grading from PCGS or NGC adds significant credibility and value.
Use a coin value app like CoinKnow to quickly verify if your 1960-D penny has this valuable overdate characteristic.
3. 1960 Proof Penny Small Date Over Large Date Error
Proof collectors have their own exciting overdate variety to hunt. The 1960 Proof Small Date Over Large Date shows clear evidence of two different date hubs being used on the same die.
Key diagnostics include a prominent notch to the left of the 1 and overlapping 9 and 6 digits. The zero displays that distinctive donut shape with the smaller zero inside the larger one.
These proof varieties are scarcer than their business strike counterparts. Values typically start around $160 in PR65 and climb significantly for higher grades with Cameo contrast.
Examples with Deep Cameo frosting are exceptionally rare. They can command prices between $1,500 and $2,000 when they appear at auction.
Wondering if your proof penny has this error? A reliable coin value app like CoinKnow can analyze your coin and provide instant identification.
4. 1960 Proof Penny Large Date Over Small Date Error
The reverse combination also exists in the proof series. This variety shows the thinner Large Date style superimposed over the Small Date style.
Look for misaligned LIBERTY lettering, particularly visible on BERTY. The large 9 and 6 extend noticeably over their smaller predecessors.
This variety trades at similar values to the Small Date Over Large Date proof. Expect to pay $160 and up for certified examples in PR65 or better.
Your best chance of finding one is searching through original, unsearched proof sets. Most sets that have passed through dealer hands have already been picked over.
Need help identifying this error and checking its value? CoinKnow offers instant AI-powered identification, professional grading, and real-time market valuations with their coin value app.
5. 1960-D Penny Repunched Mint Mark Error
The 1960-D penny is famous for its numerous repunched mint mark varieties. Before 1990, mint marks were hand-punched onto dies, often resulting in doubling.
Over 100 different RPM varieties have been documented for the 1960-D penny. Look for the D appearing doubled, tilted, or showing overlapping impressions.
Most RPM varieties trade for modest premiums of $5 to $30 in circulated grades. Dramatic examples with widely separated punches in high grades can bring several hundred dollars.
The key is finding examples where the doubling is clearly visible and sharply struck. Early die state coins typically show the strongest repunching.
A quality coin value app can help you determine which specific RPM variety you have and its current market value.
6. 1960 Penny DDO-006 Doubled Die Obverse Error
This Class 8 tilted hub doubled die shows partial doubling in key areas. The doubling appears on IN, the G from GOD, and the first T in TRUST.
This variety is less dramatic than some famous doubled dies but still collectible. Values depend heavily on the visibility of the doubling and overall coin condition.
Identification requires careful examination under magnification. Look for the characteristic rounded, raised doubling that distinguishes true hub doubling from machine doubling.
Certified examples provide peace of mind for buyers and sellers. The authentication ensures you have a genuine variety rather than post-mint damage.
Need help identifying this error and checking its value? CoinKnow offers instant AI-powered identification, professional grading, and real-time market valuations through their coin value app.
How Much is a 1960 Penny Error Worth? Coin Identifier I Recommended
Finding and valuing 1960 penny errors requires reliable tools. Here are two apps that can help you identify and price your discoveries accurately.
CoinKnow stands out as a top choice for error coin identification. This app offers AI-powered instant recognition, professional-grade analysis, and real-time market valuations. It excels at detecting doubled dies, repunched mint marks, and date varieties that other apps might miss.
CoinValueChecker provides comprehensive market intelligence and trend analysis. This app includes auction monitoring, price tracking, and collection management tools. It's particularly useful for serious collectors who want to track their holdings and spot buying opportunities.
Both apps can save you time and help you avoid costly identification mistakes. Download one today to start evaluating your 1960 penny collection with confidence.
