1989 Type I Counter Clash CCLTI-1C-1989-02

Description

The second counter clash variety documented for the 1989 Lincoln Memorial cent, CCLTI-1C-1989-02 records two offset clash events that created layered transferred impressions on the die surface. Uneven clash marks appear within the Memorial bays, accompanied by base lines from the Memorial foundation that were transferred during the clash sequence. The cornice — the horizontal molding along the top of the Memorial facade — and a vertical roof line are both visible as transferred impressions, indicating that the clash was forceful enough and positioned precisely enough to capture fine architectural details from the opposing die. Two distinct sets of marks from the obverse die document the two separate clash events, with each set offset from the other, confirming that the die pair came together at slightly different alignments during each clashing incident. The presence of transferred architectural details including the cornice and roof line provides particularly rich diagnostic evidence, as these fine linear elements create precise reference geometry for measuring the offset between the two clash impressions. Struck at the Philadelphia Mint on copper-plated zinc planchets (97.5% zinc, 2.5% copper) at 2.5 grams and 19mm. The images below show the obverse die with two sets of clash marks left by the reverse die.

External References