LDB5-1958-001 Die Break

Description

Struck during the final year of the Lincoln Wheat Cent series, this 1958 Proof die break carries historical weight beyond its technical classification. Hardy 58P-5F+2 and Cohen 58-B1002 identify a stage-five face break with two supplementary fracture segments — substantial deterioration on a die that produced some of the last Wheat Ear reverse proof cents ever made. The Wheat Ears reverse, designed by Victor David Brenner and in production since 1909, gave way to Frank Gasparro's Lincoln Memorial reverse in 1959, making every 1958 proof a terminal-year issue for one of the most iconic designs in American numismatics. The LDB5 prefix elevates this variety above LDB4-classified breaks, reflecting either greater severity or a distinct positional category in the Hardy hierarchy. At 5F+2, the die had developed two additional fracture branches — significant damage for a proof die manufactured to exacting standards. Cohen 58-B1002 anchors the variety in a parallel reference system. For collectors who specialize in the Wheat Cent series, final-year proof die varieties carry a valedictory quality that enhances their appeal.

Attribution History

• Discovered by Earl M
• Cross references: Cohen 58-B1002, Hardy 58P-5F+2. 12/18/2015.
• Expert attribution by Cuds on Coins

External References