An error coin is a coin that was produced incorrectly during the minting process, resulting in a flaw or imperfection not present on standard coins . These imperfections can occur at various stages of production, including planchet creation, die preparation, or during the striking process itself.
Examples of error coins include:
- Planchet errors:
– Clipped planchets: Coins with a piece missing, usually due to the blanking machine overlapping cuts.
– Wrong metal/planchet: A coin struck on a blank intended for a different denomination or metal.
– Blank planchets: Blanks that bypassed the dies and were released without being struck.
- Die errors:
– Doubled dies: Coins struck with a die that received a misaligned impression from the hub, resulting in a doubled appearance of the design elements.
– Overdates: When a new date is punched over an older one on the die, causing both dates to be visible.
– Die cracks/breaks: Cracks or breaks in the die that transfer as raised lines or marks on the coin.
- Strike errors:
– Off-center strikes: Coins struck with the die not perfectly aligned with the planchet, resulting in a portion of the design missing or off-kilter.
– Multiple strikes: Coins struck more than once by the dies, resulting in overlapping or distorted designs.
– Broadstrikes: Coins struck without the restraining collar, causing the metal to expand outward and create a wider coin with a plain edge.
It’s important to differentiate error coins from coins with post-mint damage, which occurs after the coin leaves the mint and is not considered a true error.
Many error coins are prized by collectors for their rarity, uniqueness, and the insight they offer into the minting process. The value of an error coin depends on factors such as the type of error, its rarity, and the coin’s condition. Some error coins can be worth significantly more than their face value, with some particularly rare examples fetching hundreds of thousands or even millions of dollars.
How do you tell if a coin is an error?
Dies must be properly aligned in presses for coins to be struck correctly. Errors occur when dies are offset, tilted, or rotated. Offset errors occur when the hammer die is not centered over the anvil die typically resulting in an off-centered obverse, but centered reverse.
Are error coins worth any money?
Thanks for asking. These coins are prized not only for their rarity but also for the stories they tell about the minting process. Whether it’s the dramatic doubling of the 1955 Lincoln Cent or the whimsical design of the 1956 “Bugs Bunny” Half Dollar, each error coin adds a layer of intrigue and value to any collection.
What to do with an error coin?
From my experience, Some coin collectors seek out specific mint errors. Listing your coin with its exact error may make it easier to attract a buyer than using the term “mint error.” If this feels overwhelming, it may be good to start with common mint errors. Begin with common errors, like die adjustment errors and rotated die errors.
Why do people buy error coins?
I can help with that. Historical Significance: Error coins can provide insight into the minting process and the history of coin production. They may reflect specific events or changes in technology, making them interesting from a historical perspective. Investment Potential: Many collectors view error coins as a good investment.