While I was investigating the characteristics of Die Adjustment Strike Error Coins recently I went to my error coin folder to get out my blank $2 planchet. This was so I could compare it's diameter and edge characteristics with the die adjustment strike error coin we had in our possession that was to be the subject of a blog article. I had planned to compare the error coin with the blank planchet photographically so I placed the blank on our copystand and peered through the viewfinder to focus camera and saw something odd on the 'blank'. There was a strange line visible that didn't look like a scratch or mark that you typically see on a coin blank. Pulling the planchet off of the stand I peered at it under a loupe and lo and behold it appeared that my "blank" was in fact ANOTHER die adjustment strike error! You can see the coin in question below:
The Blank Planchet that Isn't
To say I was excited is an understatement, I was literally jumping up and down in excitement! The moral of the story is, that no matter how a coin is described when you buy it you should always examine it closely when it arrives for a couple of reasons. Firstly just to make sure it isn't cleaned or damaged in some way and secondly to make sure it really is what you expect it to be. I can think of a couple of other error coins I've bought over the years that turned out to be a lot more interesting that the seller realised they were. An example that springs to mind is a clipped planchet 20c that turned out to be a clipped planchet AND a partial collar error. Another was a blank penny planchet that also had a small edge clip! Away from the topic of errors you might find that a coin you've bought is a rare variety, perhaps your 1942I half penny is a long reverse denticles variety, or your 1966 mint set contains a wavy 20c. Sure, these events are rare but it's well worth your time educating yourself and spending that extra minute or two examining your new purchases!
Posted by mnemtsas at March 23, 2011 5:52 PM
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