1999 (D) Jefferson Nickel - CU-5c-1999D-01 Cud

Description

Cataloged by Cuds on Coins as CU-5c-1999D-01, this cud error on the 1999-D Jefferson Nickel represents a major die break at the rim where a piece of the die physically separated, leaving a raised, featureless blob of metal at the edge of the struck coin. No cross-reference numbers have been assigned beyond the Cuds on Coins designation. The reverse of this specimen also shows a die clash — an additional die anomaly where the obverse and reverse dies struck each other without an intervening planchet, transferring incuse design impressions. The combination of a cud on one side and a die clash on the other documents two independent failure events affecting this die pair during its production run. The Jefferson Nickel in the original Felix Schlag design (1938-2003) was struck at the Denver Mint in standard copper-nickel composition — 75% copper and 25% nickel — weighing 5.0 grams with a diameter of 21.21 mm. The 1999-D was among the final years of the original Schlag design before the Westward Journey series temporarily replaced it in 2004-2005. Cuds on nickels are sought by error collectors because the larger diameter and thicker planchet of the nickel denomination compared to cents or dimes often produces more dramatic and well-defined cud formations. The die clash noted on the reverse suggests the die pair experienced significant stress during production, and it is possible the cud break and the clash event are related — a die weakened by clashing may be more susceptible to rim fracture. Collectors should examine both the obverse cud area and the reverse clash marks for the full diagnostic picture.

External References