RCD-1c-1887-08R Retained Cud

Description

The RCD-1c-1887-08R, cataloged by Cuds on Coins, is the eighth documented reverse retained cud for the 1887 Indian Head Cent — an exceptionally high count for a single date that underscores the relationship between mintage volume and die failure frequency. With at least eight reverse retained cuds identified, the 1887 date provides one of the most comprehensive studies of reverse die rim failure in the Indian Head Cent series. Each retained cud originates from a different working die, and the "08R" designation confirms this is a reverse variety where James B. Longacre's oak wreath design bears the evidence of die fracture. The 1887 Indian Head Cent's substantial mintage of approximately 45.2 million pieces required numerous dies over the course of the production year, and the statistical likelihood of rim failures increases with each additional die placed into service. Comparing the various 1887 retained cuds — from 01R through 08R and potentially beyond — allows collectors to observe the range of fracture patterns, from small rim chips to sweeping cracks that traverse significant portions of the wreath design.

Attribution History

• Discovered by Chuck Newman
• Expert attribution by Cuds on Coins

External References