As defined by the ANA, an error is a numismatic item that unintentionally varies from the norm. Ordinarily, overdates are not errors since they were done intentionally while other die-cutting mistakes are considered errors. Double dies, planchet clips, off-metal strikings, etc. also are errors. For everyday use, error variety coins are separated into major & minor errors. In general, a coin with a major error would be easily identified by eyeballing the coin. Minor errors tend to be virtually undetectable with the naked eye. Close scrutiny with a 15x magnifying glass reveals these errors. The appeal to collectors is 1) readily found in circulation, 2) premium value depending on error and coin condition and 3) enough research and fun to make it worth your while. There are many different error types can be found in circulation. Listed below are some of the common CONSEA terms of minor error coins acquired through general circulation (pocket change). - Bubble Plating these planchets have gases trapped between the core material and the plating - Die clash For the wheat cent, look under Lincoln's chin for an upside down T of CENT on the obverse and between the E of ONE and the N of CENT for Lincoln's tie on the reverse. For the Memorial cent, look for the vertical columns of the memorial building both in front of and behind Lincoln's head, as well as for the horizontal building lines through the 1 of the date. (These have recently been promoted as prisoner cents because the clash makes Lincoln appear as if he were behind bars). On the reverse, look in the first three bays of the building for an incused and upside down RTY of LIBERTY. Also, often Lincoln's head can be seen through the letters of ONE CENT. 1999-D 1c with clash marks. - Die Crack These coins exhibit raised irregular lines as a result of a crack in the die. - Die Scratches These are raised thin lines, usually on the fields of a struck coin (though they may occasionally be seen on the design), which are created by the abrading of a die. It is the pattern of the die scratches which makes them important. - Double Die If the working hub and working die with its initial image are not fitted together properly in the press, a doubled image occurs on the die. This doubled die will in turn transfer a doubled image to every coin it produces. - Rotated Die Coins are struck with coin alignment; that is, the top of one side is the bottom of the other side. If a die becomes loose in its holder or was installed with an incorrect alignment, it is said to have rotated. The greater the rotation over 15 degrees, the greater the value to collectors. - RPM These coins exhibit a mintmark that has at least a doubled image due to its being repunched. - Struck Through (1) Grease filled die. This coin exhibits weak or missing design elements due to the die being clogged with a combination of grease, dirt, and iron filings. There is a rough surface where the design element is missing. (2) String. This coin exhibits an incused thin line, usually in a wavy or circular pattern, from a piece of thread that curled up on the die or planchet. (3) Wire. This coin exhibits an incused thin line from a piece of wire or bristle from a wire brush that came between it and the die. A standard piece of equipment in a machine shop is a wire brush or file card that is used to clean the grooves of a file. The pressman periodically uses the brush to clean the press and the dies when they become clogged with grease and dirt. Falling bristles can find their way into the coining chamber and be struck into a coin. These often appear in a U shape and have been incorrectly called staples. Before spending the money on reference books, go to your public library and check out two numerous reference books on error type collecting. The Cherrypickers Guide To Rare Die Varieties The Official Price Guide To Mint Errors. The World Wide Web has many references for various error types. Do a search on error coin varieties and sit back while you sift through the myriad of returned references and links. On take the simple approach and go to the American Numismatic Association web site ana.com Authentication services are available to aid individuals having difficulties understanding or identifying any puzzling coins. As these services are not free, check with your local coin dealer first. Ready to get your feet wet? Pick through some pennies until you find a 1991p Lincoln cent. With a magnifying glass, look at the date. The digit one in 91 appears to be much shorter than the other digits in the date. Now find the same coin with the 1 that is the same length as the other digits. This error is said to be a result of a worn-die but the short digit specimen appears more far commonplace than the full size digit. For those looking for a little more challenge, assemble a type set of 1960 to 2000 Lincoln cents with reverse die cracks. Better yet, make that both p & d mints. You only need 77 specimens! A recent purchase of a cent roll yielded two coins with field die cracks and four others with design errors. To make things more interesting, another coin has an interesting but unidentified error. That is where the real fun begins. |
