1989 Type I Counter Clash CCL(T1)-10c-1989-01

Description

One of only a few identified Type I counter clashes in United States coinage, this 1989 Roosevelt Dime presents a rare die error visible to the naked eye. A counter clash occurs through a multi-step process: first, the obverse and reverse dies clash together without a planchet between them, transferring incuse design impressions onto each opposing die face. In a Type I counter clash, the clash marks deposited on one die then transfer back to the opposite die during a subsequent clashing event — creating a "counter" impression that is effectively a copy of a copy. On this 1989 dime, the obverse displays a Type I counter clash of the forehead directly in front of the head, while the reverse shows two distinct head clash marks near the left leaf. The naked-eye visibility is exceptional, as most clash-related varieties require magnification to detect. Counter clashes rank among the rarest error categories because they require two separate clashing events in precise sequence — the initial clash to create the source marks, followed by a second clash to transfer those marks back — making confirmed examples highly prized by error specialists.

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