1961-D Repunched Mintmark RPM-039

Description

Among the most extensively documented RPM varieties on the 1961-D Lincoln Memorial Cent, RPM-039 is cataloged by VarietyVista as UVC-816 with die marriage record DMR-053. The repunching reveals a D/D/D triple-punched mintmark displaced to the southeast on the lower serif, distinguishing it from the predominantly north- and east-displaced varieties that dominate the 1961-D RPM roster. Six die stages lettered A through F trace the die through a prolonged service life that extends deep into Very Late Die State territory. Stage A carries an unconfirmed EDS classification. Stage B records both the obverse and reverse at MDS without notable diagnostics beyond general wear. Stage C introduces the first major deterioration markers at LDS: strong horizontal die scratches on the obverse, a light die crack in the hair, a die break in the upper O of ONE at LDS, and a small die chip on the right cornice. Stage D, also at LDS, shifts the damage pattern as the horizontal scratches weaken and new features emerge — a minute die chip at the left upper base, a minute die crack at the left base tip, a depression under the left base, and a minute die crack at the right cornice. Stage E advances to VLDS, where a die break appears at the left upper base. The terminal Stage F continues at VLDS with a die chip developing at the left base tip. The sustained VLDS production across the final two stages indicates that the Denver Mint kept this die in service well past its typical retirement threshold.

Die Markers

• UVC-816
• DMR-053
• Stage A:
• EDS (unconfirmed)
• Stage B:
• Obverse and Reverse are MDS
• Stage C:
• Strong, horizontal die scratches on Obverse – LDS
• Light die crack in hair
• Die break in upper O of ONE – LDS
• Small die chip on Right cornice
• Stage D:
• Weak die scratches on Obverse – LDS
• Minute die chip at left upper base – LDS
• Minute die crack at left base tip
• Depression under Left base
• Minute die crack at Right cornice
• Stage E:
• Obverse is VLDS
• Die break at Left upper base – VLDS
• Stage F:
• Obverse is VLDS
• Die chip at Left base tip – VLDS

Attribution History

• Discovered by Unknown
• Expert attribution by VarietyVista

External References