1969-S 1C Doubled Die Obverse Lincoln Cent PCGS MS64+RD (CAC)

Gem Unc (13: 3,5,5). This is one of the top doubled dies in the entire US series. The spread of the doubling is close to the famous 1955 doubled die, but the rarity is much, much higher! This example is 2nd finest known in back of the Stewart Blay MS66RD (Great Collections $600K 1/23). This coin sold for $126K 16 years ago (HA 1/08:2718). it has never been offered on the market since. The value of this variety has increased substantially in the recent years as more and more collectors become enamored by the coolness factor of this variety. 

This example shows a beautiful red color with a triangle-shaped are of muted red. There are a scattering a light marks, one on the neck and a few light one here and there. I feel this is a true gem and deserves to be in a MS65RD holder. This doesn't matter too much as there is only one finer in MS66RD. 

This example was discovered by Michael Tremonti on October 3, 2007. It was subsequently sold for a record price in the aforementioned Heritage sale soon after. This still ranks as one of the highest value cherrypicks of any coin from an original roll. It is fresh, full red and a gem. the fields are semi-prooflike. The next finest example is the "ESM" coin which is MS64RD PCGS/CAC. It has numerous heavy marks and is not close to gem. It sold for $126K six year ago (StacksBowers 3/18:2148).

This is an exceptional example and has a great story of discovery and outstanding eye appeal and should make it to MS65RD at some point.