1950-S Over Mint Mark OMM-001

Description

Cataloged as OMM-001 (UVC-0743, DMR-009), this 1950-S Washington quarter is an over-mintmark variety where the S was punched over a previous impression. Three die stages are documented. Stage A is the earliest, unconfirmed for supplementary markers. Stage B shows the reverse at mid-die-state, but the obverse already exhibits late-die-state cracking: across the bust, across the forehead and hair, across the upper hair, plus a die chip on Washington's nose. Stage C places both sides in late die state. The rapid progression of obverse cracks from Stage B onward suggests this die deteriorated quickly, potentially limiting coins struck in the earliest state. Over-mintmarks on Washington silver quarters from the late 1940s and early 1950s are highly sought because they provide tangible evidence of die-sharing between facilities. The 1950-S was struck in 90% silver with moderate mintage. Inspect the mintmark area behind the eagle for the underlying original punch, then examine the portrait for die-stage cracks.

Die Markers

• UVC-0743
• DMR-009
• Stage A:
• EDS (unconfirmed)
• Stage B:
• Reverse is MDS
• Die crack across bust – LDS
• Die crack across forehead and hair
• Die crack across upper hair
• Die chip on nose
• Stage C:
• LDS (unconfirmed)

External References