LDB4-1957-023 Die Break

Description

Classified under Hardy 57P-4EL rather than the more common 57P-4F designation, this 1957 Proof Lincoln Wheat Cent die break represents a different break type or location than those assigned to the full-break 4F category. The Hardy system uses the EL suffix to distinguish breaks at a specific positional variant, separating them from the standard full die break classification and enabling researchers to map where different failure types concentrate. Cross-referenced as Cohen 57-B438, this variety provides an independent identification pathway through the Cohen numbering that predates the Hardy framework. The distinction between 57P-4EL and 57P-4F matters because it reveals the 1957 proof die population experienced structurally different types of failure — some dies fractured in the pattern characteristic of 4F breaks, while others, like this die, failed in the manner defined by the 4EL classification. Proof dies for the 1957 Wheat Cent were prepared at Philadelphia using polished die faces and struck onto specially treated planchets, producing coins where die failure features appear in sharp relief against mirror-like fields. Cataloged by Cuds on Coins.

Attribution History

• Discovered by JC Stevens
• Cross references: Cohen 57-B438, Hardy 57P-4EL. 09/14/2016.
• Expert attribution by Cuds on Coins

External References