1989-D Repunched Mintmark WRPM-016

Description

Another replacement listing in the Wexler catalog, the current WRPM-016 (variety ID 1989-D 1¢ WRPM-016) occupies this catalog position after the original die was found to carry a damaged mintmark punch rather than a genuine repunching — an important distinction because damaged punch impressions can mimic the appearance of an RPM to the untrained eye. This D/D North variety features die gouges above the left side of the mintmark, a die scratch at the rim with a die dot between the lower N in IN and G in GOD, a die scratch running northeast from the rim toward the right side of L in LIBERTY, and multiple die scratches at the rim under LIBERTY on the obverse. The reverse shows gouges right of the second A in AMERICA, inside the upper F of the designer's initials FG, inside and left of the lower M in AMERICA, and left of lower E in UNITED. No cross-references to CONECA or Coppercoins are currently known. The distinction between damaged mint mark punches and genuine repunching is a recurring challenge in RPM cataloging, requiring careful analysis of whether the secondary image results from die-level re-application or punch-level wear. Struck on copper-plated zinc planchets (97.5% zinc, 2.5% copper) at 2.5 grams and 19mm.

Attribution History

• Discovered by Brian Ribar Cross References: None known Comments: This is a replacement listing, the original die was found to have the damaged mintmark punch.
• None known Comments: This is a replacement listing, the original die was found to have the damaged mintmark punch.; Wexler Variety ID: 1989-D 1¢ WRPM-016
• Expert attribution by Wexler Team

External References