1986-D Repunched Mintmark RPM-001

Description

The premier repunched mint mark for the 1986-D Lincoln Memorial cent, RPM-001 is cataloged by VarietyVista with identifiers UVC-1000 and DMR-002, and carries a distinctive four-stage die progression that makes it one of the most thoroughly documented RPMs for the date. What sets this variety apart from typical repunched mint marks is an unusual characteristic: the secondary mint mark impression is not visible inside the upper loop of the D at early die state (EDS) but becomes apparent at mid-die state (MDS). This progression reverses the normal expectation — on most RPMs, the secondary impression is clearest on early die state specimens and fades as the die wears. Here, the secondary mark is so shallow that it only becomes discernible as surrounding die metal wears away, exposing the faint impression that was initially hidden beneath the surface. This mechanical signature indicates the secondary punch was applied with minimal force, barely indenting the die steel. The four documented die stages offer collectors a progressive visual narrative of how this variety evolves through the die's service life, from the cryptic EDS through revealing MDS to later stages. Struck at Denver on copper-plated zinc planchets at 2.5 grams and 19mm from the 1986 mintage of 4,442,866,698 cents.

Die Markers

• UVC-1000
• DMR-002
• Stage A:
• No secondary mintmark inside upper loop – EDS
• Reverse is EDS
• Stage B:
• Secondary mintmark inside upper loop – MDS
• Die crack on column #10, #11, and #12 – MDS
• Stage C:
• Obverse is LMDS
• Die chip at top of Right cornice – LMDS
• Stage D:
• LDS (unconfirmed)

External References