SHD-100c-1921P-01 & 02 Shattered Die

Description

Documenting the most extreme form of die deterioration, the 1921 Morgan Dollar SHD-100c-1921P-01 & 02 records a shattered die — a working die that developed so many intersecting cracks that its entire surface fractured into interlocking segments. Unlike a single die crack or even a cud, a shattered die transfers a web of raised lines across the entire coin, creating a dramatic crackled appearance visible to the unaided eye. The combined designation "01 & 02" indicates two shattered die varieties cataloged together, likely representing two stages of the same die's progressive fracturing or two related dies that both reached the catastrophic shatter threshold. The catalog code "100c" represents the dollar denomination (100 cents) in the Cuds on Coins system. The 1921 Morgan Dollar holds unique historical significance as the final year of George T. Morgan's design — after a seventeen-year hiatus from 1904, the series was briefly revived in 1921 before the Peace Dollar replaced it in December. The 1921-P had an enormous mintage of 44,690,000, and the rushed production may have contributed to die stress. Struck in 90% silver at 26.73 grams. Cataloged by Cuds on Coins. Examine both sides for the network of raised intersecting lines characterizing a fully shattered die.

Attribution History

• Discovered by Jim Ussery
• Expert attribution by Cuds on Coins

External References