LDB4-1955S-009E BIE Die Break

Description

Marking the fifth documented die state of Die 009, LDB4-1955S-009E records an advanced stage of deterioration on this 1955 San Francisco Mint Lincoln Wheat Cent die. Hardy code 55S-4SBL+3 shows that the additional die break count has climbed to 3 — up from the +1 recorded in both the A and B states — confirming progressive die failure as the fracture network expanded during continued use. Cohen cross-reference BA159 anchors this late die state in the secondary attribution system. The jump from +1 to +3 additional breaks between the B and E states indicates that Die 009 experienced accelerating deterioration, with new fractures emerging as the steel fatigued under repeated striking pressure. San Francisco's 1955 cent production of 44.61 million pieces represents the final S-mint circulation cent, lending historical weight to the detailed die-state tracking that Cuds on Coins maintains for this issue. The progression from 009A through 009E — spanning at least five observable stages with escalating damage — provides one of the more thoroughly documented die-life sequences in the BIE census, illustrating how a single working die deteriorated over the course of its service.

Attribution History

• Discovered by JC Stevens
• Cross references: Cohen 55S-BA159, Hardy 55S-4SBL+3. 10/02/2015.
• Expert attribution by Cuds on Coins

External References