1793 Wreath Cent - Lettered Edge - Wreath Cent (Lettered Edge) Obverse Die Clash

Description

A die clash is visible on the obverse of this 1793 Wreath cent with lettered edge. A die clash occurs when the obverse and reverse dies strike each other without a planchet between them, transferring elements of each die's design onto the opposing die. This Lettered Edge Wreath cent has a strong die clash, with all of "AMERICA" and much of the wreath closest to "AMERICA" on the reverse visible on the obverse. The 1793 Wreath cent replaced the Chain cent design partway through 1793, and die clashes on these early issues provide insight into the production difficulties at the fledgling Philadelphia Mint.