1984 Lincoln Cent, Memorial (1959-2008)
Doubled Ear, FS-101
Key Features
The 1984 doubled die, best known as the "Doubled Ear" variety, shows clear doubling concentrated on Lincoln's ear along with lesser doubling in his beard and bow tie, rather than in the usual date-and-lettering areas seen in most doubled dies. Several thousand examples are believed to exist across all grades, making it more available than the rarest Lincoln doubled dies while still commanding a solid premium, especially in high Mint State red. Because the doubling is concentrated in a small area of the design, it is easy to overlook without knowing exactly where to look, and third-party attribution is recommended to confirm genuine FS-101 doubling versus lesser die markers sometimes mistaken for it. If you believe you have found one of these coins, contact Frostbyte Coins at frostbytecoins@gmail.com or through our YouTube channel @FrostbyteCoins â we can help guide you toward professional third-party authentication through PCGS or NGC before any sale or purchase.
Intriguing History
A subtle but well-documented doubling on Lincoln's ear gives the 1984 "Doubled Ear" cent its nickname, a variety popular with collectors precisely because it rewards a careful eye rather than jumping out at first glance the way the more dramatic 1955 or 1972 doubled dies do.