LDB4-1996-001 BIE Die Break

Description

Cataloged in the Hardy Index as position 4F+, this BIE die break on the 1996 Philadelphia Mint Lincoln Memorial Cent exhibits a small raised vertical line between the letters of LIBERTY on the obverse. The "LDB4" designation indicates the die break occurs at position 4 within the standardized BIE classification system. BIE die breaks are among the most widely collected minor die varieties in the Lincoln Cent series, occurring when a small die crack develops between the letters of LIBERTY on Brenner's obverse design and fills with metal during striking, producing a thin raised vertical element resembling a letter I. The Hardy Index provides systematic cataloging of these varieties, and 4F+ identifies the specific character of the break within the broader position 4 category. This variety was documented by the Cuds on Coins reference. The 1996 Philadelphia Mint cent was struck in copper-plated zinc, the standard planchet material since 1982. BIE die breaks are a regular strike phenomenon tied to normal die wear and fatigue.

Attribution History

• Discovered by Ed Games
• Cross reference: Hardy Index 4F+. 07/18/2015.
• Expert attribution by Cuds on Coins

External References