RIDB-1c-1991-01 Retained Interior Die Break

Description

Where IDB-1c-1991-01 documents a die fragment that separated completely, RIDB-1c-1991-01 on the 1991 Lincoln Memorial cent preserves the companion scenario: an interior die break where the fractured fragment remained in place within the die cavity, held by friction or partial attachment to the surrounding die steel. A retained interior die break produces a subtly different appearance than a fully separated break — instead of a smooth, featureless raised area, the retained fragment shifts slightly under striking pressure, creating a depressed or slightly displaced version of the design elements it carries. The fragment essentially acts as a loose insert within the die, moving fractionally with each strike and producing coins where a localized area of the design appears sunken, shifted, or distorted relative to the surrounding normally struck design. No cross-reference numbers have been assigned to this variety in other cataloging systems. The retained condition adds a layer of complexity for attributors, who must distinguish this variety from similar-appearing errors such as die subsidence or struck-through debris. Struck at Philadelphia on copper-plated zinc planchets composed of 97.5% zinc and 2.5% copper, weighing 2.5 grams and measuring 19mm.

Attribution History

• Discovered by Earl M
• Expert attribution by Cuds on Coins

External References