1973-S Atypical Die Clash ADC-10C-1973S-01

Description

Cataloged by MadDieClashes as ADC-10c-1973S-01, this 1973-S Proof Roosevelt Dime exhibits a strong reverse die clash accompanied by a somewhat lesser obverse die clash. On the obverse, the olive branch and leaves from the reverse design appear clashed into the nose and forehead of Roosevelt, transferred when the obverse and reverse dies struck each other without a planchet between them. The reverse carries strong clash marks left by the profile of Roosevelt's bust. Die clashes of this magnitude on proof coins are particularly noteworthy because proof production uses lower press speeds and more careful handling, making clashed dies less common than in business-strike production. This specimen has been encapsulated by PCGS as a die clash and resides in the private collection of Neal Burnett. As a proof striking from the San Francisco Mint, the coin was produced on specially prepared polished planchets with mirror-like fields that make the clash impressions especially visible against the reflective surfaces. John R. Sinnock's Roosevelt Dime design has been in production since 1946, and the 1973-S proof was struck in copper-nickel clad composition.

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