LDB6-1953-001A BIE Die Break

Description

Despite its BIE catalog designation, this 1953 Lincoln wheat cent variety is actually a die break at the ALRT position, located between the R and T of LIBERTY. Hardy did not use Die Break Locator Numerals on associated die breaks for this entry. The variety documents a four-stage die progression: Stage 1 shows only the break between R and T (Cohen 53-B1104); Stage 2 adds a die crack on the coat (Cohen 53-B1105); Stage 3 adds a die chip on the left wheat stalk (Cohen 53-B1106); and Stage 4 develops a die chip on the T in CENT with a Hardy Index of 53P-ALRT+1 (Cohen 53-B1107). This progressive sequence illustrates how die failure cascades from a single initial fracture point, with secondary cracks and chips developing at stress concentration points as the die continues in service. Cross-referenced as Cohen 53-B1105 and not listed by Hardy. The systematic Cohen numbers across all four stages allow collectors to identify exactly where their specimen falls in the die deterioration timeline. This type of progressive die break documentation is valuable for understanding failure mechanics in mid-century Lincoln cent production.

Attribution History

• Discovered by Marissa Wiley
• Cross references: Cohen 53-B1105, Hardy Not Listed. 12/06/2019.
• Expert attribution by Cuds on Coins

External References