CoinWeek Giveaway # 634 Sponsored by…1996 Lincoln Cent Modern PCGS MS-65 RD Mint Error D/S 2nd Strike 80% O/C

1996 Lincoln Cent Double Struck Error: A Dramatic Mint Mishap
A Giveaway Coin with a Story to Tell

At first glance, the 1996 Lincoln cent in this CoinWeek Contest looks unusual. However, a closer look reveals something far more exciting. This coin shows a dramatic double strike error, with the second strike pushed roughly 80% off-center. As a result, it offers a rare window into how minting mistakes happen, and why collectors love them.

Even better, this coin reflects a time when major mint errors escaped into circulation more often than they do today.

What Is a Double Strike Error?

A true double strike occurs during the minting process. Normally, a freshly struck coin ejects from the press immediately. However, mechanical failure can interrupt that process.

In most cases, the problem involves the feeder finger. When it fails, the coin remains inside the striking chamber. Then, the dies descend again. Consequently, they strike the same coin a second time and create a second design impression.

Unlike doubled dies, which originate on the die itself, a double strike happens during production. Therefore, each example is unique.

Why the 1996 Cent Stands Out

The 1996 Lincoln cent gained attention among collectors for producing some of the most dramatic striking errors of the late 1990s. This contest coin fits that reputation perfectly.

Common variations for this year include:

• Off-center double strikes: The second strike appears misaligned. Some examples reach as much as 90% off-center.
• Flip-over double strikes: The coin flips between strikes, so obverse and reverse designs overlap.
• Rotated double strikes: The coin stays centered but rotates, creating a bold doubled image.

In this case, the 80% off-center second strike creates strong visual appeal. The design stretches across the planchet, making the error easy to see.

Not All Doubling Is Equal

Collectors must identify true double strikes correctly. Several similar effects exist, but they carry far less value.

For example, a Doubled Die Obverse (FS-101) shows doubling on the date and the word “TRUST.” However, that doubling originates from the die, not the strike.

Meanwhile, machine doubling produces a flat, shelf-like effect. Likewise, die deterioration doubling creates a softer, shadow-like image. Neither shows the bold separation seen on a true double strike.

Rarity and Collector Value

Interest in 1990s mint errors has grown over time. In fact, rarity increased after 2002. That year, the United States Mint introduced advanced scanning systems to detect major errors before release.

As a result, earlier coins like this 1996 cent remain highly collectible.

Today, certified examples typically sell between $50 and $500, depending on condition and visual impact. For instance, a 90% off-center double strike can bring about $225. Meanwhile, rotated double-strike errors have approached $500.

Even more dramatic pieces exist. A 1996 cent struck over a Roosevelt dime can exceed $750.

A Modern Error with Lasting Appeal

This 1996 Lincoln cent double struck error captures a moment when the minting process went wrong—and created something extraordinary.

Because of its bold 80% off-center strike, it stands out immediately. More importantly, it tells a story of mechanical failure, timing, and chance.

That combination gives this CoinWeek Contest coin its true appeal.

Read More about U.S.Coins on CoinWeek

Entries into our Contest are accepted from  March 28th  until 8 PM on Saturday April 4th, 2026

Links to Entry Forms,  Extra Entry Options and Terms are Below

The CoinWeek Giveaway is open to all US Citizens 18 yrs and older. Just submit your Email Address into the Entry Form – CLICK HERE, and you will recieve One entry into the Giveaway. Good luck and enjoy the contest! Get up to 6 Extra Entries into this week’s Giveaway……. Follow the Links below. NOTE: ALL Entry pages and Options links  OPEN in new windows, so once you have finished your entry, just close the tab and you will return to this Main Giveaway Page to continue selecting additional Entry opportunities !

Do you want to get additional enties to this weeks contest? Just go to our Facebook Page and find the CoinWeek Giveway announcement. Click on the “LIKE Button” and get 1 extra entry.  If you choose to Add A Comment, you will receive an additional extra entry into the Giveaway. That’s  all there is to it. More Chances to win !

Remember: Close the Entry Window Tab in your browser and you will return to the Giveaway Home page

We have another way to recieve additional entries to the CoinWeek Giveaway.  Just go to the CoinWeek website and browse ANY of the articles we have on the Home page. Open and read the any article then place a comment at the bottom of the page. You will be recieve an additional 4 entries into the CoinWeek Giveaway for the current giveaway.

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For each Newsletter you select, CoinWeek will give to an Additional Giveaway Entry automatically, EVERY WEEK you remain a subscriber. No need to re-subscribe unless you wish to change or add new newsletters

Note:  Newsletters are sent every two weeks unless there is a special reason to send a special announcement or breaking news event specific to the newsletter topic.

NO PURCHASE NECESSARY TO ENTER OR WIN. MAKING A PURCHASE OR PAYMENT OF ANY KIND WILL NOT INCREASE YOUR CHANCES OF WINNING. VOID WHERE PROHIBITED OR RESTRICTED BY LAW……
Read ALL the Rules, Terms and Conditions of the Giveaway Here.

If you have signup for extra enties, made comments, read articles and joined Newsletters, Why does the main entry form just show One Entry?    Here is the answer !….. Extra Entries – How are they recorded ?

To see a list of the Names and states of most of the Past Winners of the CoinWeek Givaway , along with the coins and paper money that has have given away. For over 11 years CoinWeek has held the free coin giveaway weekly, bring new classic and interesting Ancient, World and US Coins and currency to our readers. Click Here to view the list

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