LDB4-1956-006 Die Break

Description

Interior die breaks on proof coinage carry special significance because proof dies are manufactured to higher standards and undergo more careful inspection than business strike dies. This LDB4-1956-006 documents the sixth cataloged die break on a 1956 Proof Lincoln Wheat Cent, where a fracture developed within the interior of the die face rather than at the rim. Unlike rim cuds where a die fragment separates entirely, interior die breaks often retain the fractured piece in place or create raised lines and ridges on the struck coin's surface that trace the fracture path through the die. The 1956 proof production at Philadelphia served collectors purchasing annual proof sets, and the controlled striking process used for proofs, with higher pressure and slower press speeds, could concentrate stress in ways that differed from business strike production. Cross-referenced as Cohen and Hardy 56P-4F+. Cataloged by Cuds on Coins for the Lincoln Wheat Cents 1909-1958 series, documenting a proof die failure during the penultimate year of Brenner's wheat ears reverse.

Attribution History

• Discovered by Earl M
• Cross references: Cohen Pending, Hardy 56P-4F+pending.
• Expert attribution by Cuds on Coins

External References