In fact, coins like this do not just appear. They demand attention. And this one tells a story that stretches back to the earliest days of the United States Minting experiment.

The Coin: A Remarkable Mint Error in Mint State

1787 Fugio Cent. Pointed Rays. Newman 11-B – Double Struck – MS-63 BN (PCGS)

At first glance, this coin stands out for its preservation. MS-63 Brown examples of Fugio cents are already scarce. Yet this piece goes further. It exhibits a bold and highly visible double strike on both sides.

The second strike sits off-center. On the obverse, it appears at approximately 8:30. On the reverse, it shifts to around 10 o’clock. As a result, both impressions remain partially visible. Even more impressively, the coin shows two full dates and two distinct sun faces.

The surfaces are equally compelling. They appear satiny and well-preserved. Traces of faded rose-red color still survive. Meanwhile, steel-brown and golden-olive tones dominate the patina. A thin planchet void in the right obverse field of the first strike serves as a useful diagnostic marker.

Why This Coin Is Extraordinary

Double-struck Fugio cents are rare. However, examples in Mint State are virtually unheard of.

Typically, early copper coins circulated heavily. Therefore, most known error pieces show wear. This coin breaks that pattern. It combines strong technical quality with a dramatic minting mistake. That pairing elevates it into elite territory.

Moreover, the double strike is not subtle. It is bold. It is easily visible without magnification. Consequently, it offers both visual appeal and technical significance.

The Newman 11-B Variety and Its Rarity

The coin belongs to the Newman 11-B variety, one of the scarcer issues within the Fugio cent series.

Importantly, this variety is associated with the famous Bank of New York Hoard. A 1948 census recorded only 60 known examples of Newman 11-B. That number underscores its scarcity.

This specific coin also carries pedigree significance. It appears plated on page 70 of Jeff Rock’s 2016 update to Fugio Copper Notes by Rob Retz. There, it is described as a spectacular multiple offset strike with an early reverse die state.

However, careful examination reveals faint clash marks. These appear in the obverse field around both dates. Still, the clashing remains light. Therefore, the die state is earlier than Newman C.

The Bank of New York Hoard: A Foundational American Treasure

To understand this coin fully, one must understand the Bank of New York Hoard.

Shortly after the Fugio cents were struck in 1787, a large quantity remained unused. These coins eventually came into the possession of the Bank of New York, an institution founded by Alexander Hamilton.

For decades, the coins sat undisturbed. Then, in the mid-19th century, the hoard was rediscovered. Many pieces entered the numismatic market, often in unusually high grades for early American copper.

This hoard shaped modern understanding of Fugio cents. It preserved varieties that might otherwise have vanished. It also explains why certain examples, like Newman 11-B, survive in collectible condition.

A Closer Look at the Minting Error

The double strike on this coin offers insight into early minting practices.

First, the coin received its initial strike. Then, it shifted position before a second strike occurred. Because the strikes are offset, both impressions remain visible.

Notably, the error affects both obverse and reverse. That detail adds complexity and desirability. It also confirms that the coin was struck twice under misaligned conditions rather than being damaged later.

Major mint errors from the Fugio series are exceedingly rare. When they do appear, they rarely combine clarity, strength, and preservation like this example.

Condition, Eye Appeal, and Collector Significance

This coin grades MS-63 BN (PCGS). That designation alone places it among the finest Fugio cents available.

However, condition is only part of the story. The eye appeal is exceptional. The surfaces remain hard and original. The color displays depth and variation. Meanwhile, the bold error creates immediate visual impact.

For collectors, this piece checks every box:

• Scarce variety
• Hoard association
• Major mint error
• Mint State preservation
• Strong visual appeal

As a result, it stands as one of the most desirable Newman 11-B examples known.

A Coin That Should Not Exist

Coins like this challenge expectations.

Early American copper rarely survives in high grade. Mint errors from the period are even rarer. Yet this coin delivers both in a single piece.

It offers a snapshot of 1787. It shows the realities of early minting. At the same time, it connects directly to the Bank of New York Hoard and the financial foundations of the United States.

In short, this is not just a coin. It is a historical artifact with personality, drama, and undeniable presence.

The post A Double-Struck Fugio Cent in Mint State? A Discovery That Stops Collectors in Their Tracks appeared first on CoinWeek: Rare Coin, Currency, and Bullion News for Collectors.

In late 2025, a remarkable discovery surfaced from an old-time mint error collection. Among several rare off-metal pieces sat an extraordinary coin: a Buffalo Nickel struck on a dime planchet, now certified by the Professional Coin Grading Service (PCGS).

The coin immediately stood out. It displays a fully struck design, strong eye appeal, and gem mint state preservation. Light, original toning complements its vibrant luster. As a result, it ranks as the second-finest known example of this famous error type.

Even more impressive, the piece survived unnoticed for decades before finally entering the spotlight.

What Makes This Error So Rare?

A Buffalo nickel struck on a dime planchet represents a dramatic minting mistake known as a wrong planchet error.

How the Error Happens

The process is simple, but the mistake is not.

First, planchets (blank coins) move through the Mint in large bins. Occasionally, a few dime planchets remain in a bin after use. Then, workers refill the same bin with nickel blanks.

As a result, stray dime planchets mix in. When those smaller blanks reach a nickel press, the machine strikes them with Buffalo nickel dies.

The outcome is striking. The dies are larger and designed for thicker metal. Therefore, the smaller dime planchet cannot properly accommodate the design.

Key Physical Characteristics

Collectors can identify these errors quickly because they show several distinct traits:

• Smaller Diameter – The coin matches a dime’s size, not a nickel’s
• Silver Composition – Early examples contain 90% silver, unlike standard nickel alloy
• Incomplete Design – Portions of the design run off the edge
• Soft Strike – Thinner metal often results in weaker central detail

Despite these challenges, the newly certified PCGS example shows an unusually sharp and complete strike, which adds to its elite status.

Condition Census: Second Only to a Legendary 1913 Example

This newly certified coin now ranks just behind the finest known specimen: a 1913 Buffalo Nickel struck on a dime planchet, graded MS 66 by Numismatic Guaranty Company.

That coin has achieved six-figure value levels, underscoring the importance of the newly certified example.

Importantly, fewer than a dozen examples exist across all dates.

A Complete Census of Known Examples

Research by Saul Teichman of uspatterns.com identifies at least 10 known Buffalo nickels struck on dime planchets. These include:

Documented Examples by Date:

• 1913 – NGC MS66 example sold by Heritage Auctions (April 2010) for $46,000 Finest Known
• 1918 – PCGS AU58 example (formerly in major collections) Sold at Heritage FUN (2020) for $14,400. Earlier offering listed at $27,000
• 1920 – PCGS AU55 example traced through multiple fixed price lists
• 1925 – PCGS AU50 example. Sold at Heritage FUN (2018) for $4,800
• 1929 (Two Examples) – PCGS AU58 example with long pedigree and this PCGS MS64 pictured above from the Byers Collection.
• 1936 _ NGC MS62 example, stolen in 2001 and recovered in 2009
• 1936-S – PCGS MS62 example, though noted as damaged
• Undated (Two Examples) – PCGS AU58 example (S mintmark) and Another PCGS AU58 example sold in 2022 for $12,000

Why These Errors Almost Never Escape the Mint

Mint quality control typically catches wrong planchet errors. That fact explains their extreme rarity.

However, a few pieces slip through. When they do, they often remain hidden for years, sometimes decades, inside old collections.

This newly certified coin fits that pattern perfectly.

Market Demand and Value Trends

Collectors prize dramatic mint errors. Moreover, off-metal strikes rank among the most desirable categories.

Because of that demand:

• Even circulated examples sell for thousands of dollars
• High-grade specimens can reach five-figure prices or more
• The finest known example sits firmly in the six-figure range

Given its condition and rarity, this newly certified PCGS coin could command strong attention if offered publicly.

A Coin That Should Not Exist

Every great mint error tells a story. This one tells several.

First, it survived the Mint’s inspection process. Then, it disappeared into a private collection for generations. Finally, it re-emerged in near-pristine condition.

That journey adds to its mystique.

More importantly, the coin represents a moment when precision failed, and history was created.

Why This Discovery Matters

This certification reinforces a key truth in numismatics: important coins still wait to be discovered.

Even in well-studied series like the Buffalo nickel, surprises continue to appear.

And when they do, they reshape the condition census, and the market.

The post PCGS Certifies Second-Finest Known Buffalo Nickel Struck on a Dime Planchet appeared first on CoinWeek: Rare Coin, Currency, and Bullion News for Collectors.

Every so often, a coin surfaces that forces collectors to rethink what is possible. This newly documented 1963 Franklin Half Dollar does exactly that. It was struck on a 75% silver, 25% copper planchet and weighs 12.60 grams, a composition that does not match standard U.S. Mint specifications.

Even more compelling, the piece has been authenticated and certified by NGC as a mint error. Yet, the evidence suggests something far more significant. This coin may not simply be an error. Instead, it likely represents an experimental test strike tied to one of the most important transitions in U.S. coinage history.

The Crisis That Changed American Coinage

To understand this coin, we must return to the early 1960s.

By 1963, the United States faced a growing silver shortage. Government data revealed a deficit of 209 million ounces of silver, while demand for circulating coinage continued to rise. As silver prices climbed, the Treasury Department needed a solution, and fast.

Therefore, officials turned to outside expertise. In 1963, the Treasury contracted the Battelle Memorial Institute to study alternative metallic compositions for U.S. coins.

This decision set the stage for sweeping change.

Experimental Coins and the Martha Washington Designs

Battelle did not work alone. The U.S. Mint actively participated in testing new alloys. Together, they produced experimental coins using a special set of dies.

Sculptor-engraver Edward R. Grove designed the obverse featuring Martha Washington

Sculptor-engraver Philip Fowler created the Mount Vernon reverse

These dies were used to strike dime-, quarter-, and half dollar-sized experimental pieces in a wide range of compositions, including:

• Silver-copper alloys
• Silver-clad materials
• Fully clad compositions

Importantly, these experiments were not always fully documented. As a result, new discoveries continue to emerge decades later.

A Coin Without a Perfect Match

The 1963 Franklin Half Dollar in question does not match any officially recorded experimental composition from the Battelle report. However, that fact does not weaken its case, it strengthens it.

Why? Because the historical record is incomplete.

The U.S. Mint has a long tradition of producing experimental and pattern coins dating back to its founding in 1792. Yet, many of these pieces exist only as brief mentions in government reports. Others were never recorded at all.

Therefore, when a coin appears with a precise but unusual composition, like 75% silver and 25% copper, it demands serious attention.

Physical Evidence Points to an Experimental Strike

This coin tells its story through its physical characteristics:

• Weak strike: The harder alloy resisted full detail under standard striking pressure
• Partial collar: The planchet did not seat properly during striking
• Incomplete reeding: Visible only along part of the edge
• Uncirculated condition: Full luster with light, original toning

These traits align with known experimental and off-metal strikes. Because the dies were calibrated for standard 90% silver planchets, the different alloy produced an imperfect impression.

Eliminating the Alternatives

Experienced specialists quickly ruled out two common explanations.

Not a Foreign Planchet

The U.S. Mint did strike coins for foreign nations. However, none match this composition and size. While the Mint produced 75% silver coins for the Philippines, those planchets were smaller and thinner than a Franklin Half Dollar.

Not an Improper Alloy Mix

NGC conducted metallurgical analysis and confirmed a precise 75% silver / 25% copper ratio. That level of consistency does not occur in accidental alloy errors.

Improper alloy errors typically show only slight deviations from standard compositions. For example, a mix close to 90% silver would suggest a blending issue. This coin does not fit that pattern.

The Most Likely Scenario

So what happened?

The most logical explanation ties directly to the Mint’s experimental program.

During the early 1960s, the Mint tested multiple silver-copper ratios. Therefore, a 75% silver planchet could have been:

Intentionally placed into the press for testing with Franklin dies

Accidentally mixed with standard planchets during production

Either scenario leads to the same conclusion. This coin was struck during a critical transitional period, when the Mint actively experimented with new compositions.

A Pattern of “Impossible” Errors

Although unique, this coin is not without precedent.

The U.S. Mint has a documented history of striking coins on the wrong planchets during periods of change. Famous examples include:

• 1943 copper Lincoln cents
• 1944 steel Lincoln cents
• Eisenhower dollars struck on silver planchets

These cases prove an important point. Even in highly controlled environments, planchet mix-ups do occur, especially during transitions.

Why This Coin Matters

This 1963 Franklin Half Dollar stands at the crossroads of history.

It represents:

• The end of 90% silver coinage
• An experimental phase leading to clad coinage
• A incomplete documentation of Mint testing programs

Most importantly, it reminds us that numismatics is still evolving. New discoveries continue to reshape our understanding of the past.

Final Thoughts: A Coin That Bridges Two Eras

This coin is more than a mint error. It is a physical artifact from a moment when the U.S. Mint faced unprecedented pressure to modernize.

Because of that, it occupies a rare space in numismatics, somewhere between error, pattern, and experimental strike.

And that is what gives it its “wow” factor.

Coins like this do not just fill holes in collections. They fill gaps in history.

Read the full story with more details in MintErrorNews

The post Unique 1963 Franklin Half Dollar on Wrong Planchet May Be an Experimental Test Piece appeared first on CoinWeek: Rare Coin, Currency, and Bullion News for Collectors.

One of the greatest U.S. coin errors ever discovered, the 1887 Morgan Silver Dollar double struck 25% off-center, has made its first auction appearance at GreatCollections.

Even more impressive, this extraordinary piece comes directly from the personal collection of famed error specialist Fred Weinberg, where it remained for nearly half a century.

One of the Greatest U.S. Coin Errors Known

This coin is not just rare. It is elite.

The 1887 Morgan Dollar ranks No. 6 in the book 100 Greatest U.S. Error Coins. That makes it the highest-ranked Morgan Dollar error on the list.

Experts agree on its importance. Weinberg himself handled many of the greatest U.S. errors during his career. Yet he singled this coin out.

He described it as one of the very best he had ever seen. He even kept it in his personal collection for almost 50 years. That says everything.

A Dramatic Double Strike Unlike Any Other

This coin stands apart for one reason: visual impact.

Most double struck Morgan Dollars show only minor evidence of the second strike. Often, collectors see just a faint nub near the rim…… Not here.

This example features a bold second strike that sits 25% off-center. The result is dramatic.

Liberty appears clearly doubled on the obverse, and the eagle shows strong duplication on the reverse

The effect is immediate. It grabs attention. And it does not let go.

Weinberg called it “simply stunning.” He also stated that this is the best double strike Morgan Dollar known.

Why This Error Is So Rare

Large silver coins rarely escape the Mint with major errors.

The U.S. Mint historically maintained strict quality control. That matters even more for larger, precious metal coins like the Morgan Dollar.

As a result, dramatic errors of this scale almost never survive.

That explains the coin’s extreme rarity. It also explains why so few comparable pieces exist. Only a handful of off-center double strikes are known for the series, and none match this level of visual drama.

Certified and Pedigreed to the Weinberg Collection

Numismatic Guaranty Company (NGC) certified the coin as:

• Mint Error MS-61 – Double Struck

The certification confirms both authenticity and condition. In addition, the coin carries the prestigious Weinberg pedigree, which further strengthens its appeal.

Collectors value provenance. And this provenance is exceptional.

A Coin Hidden for Decades

The story behind this piece adds even more intrigue.

Weinberg acquired the coin in the late 1970s at an ANA convention. He immediately recognized its importance.

In his own words, he was stunned. He recalled thinking “wow” the moment he saw it.

Then he made a decision. He kept it.

For decades, the coin remained off the market. It quietly sat in one of the most respected error collections in the hobby………Until now!

First Public Offering Sparks Strong Bidding

This sale marks the first time the coin has ever appeared at public auction.

That milestone alone creates excitement. However, the early bidding confirms it.

More than a month before the April 19 closing date, bidding had already reached $39,000, and momentum continues to build.

Collectors understand what this coin represents. It is not just another error. It is a trophy-level piece.

The Ultimate Centerpiece for a Collection

Weinberg made a bold statement about this coin’s future.

He said whoever acquires it will own the key coin of their collection.

That claim carries weight. After all, few collectors will ever have the chance to own a top-10 U.S. error coin, especially one with this level of eye appeal.

Simply put, this is a centerpiece coin.

Final Thoughts

This 1887 Morgan Dollar error checks every box.

It offers rarity. It delivers visual drama. And it comes with elite pedigree.

Most importantly, it appears at auction for the first time. That moment matters.

Opportunities like this do not repeat often. Advanced collectors know it. And the market is responding.

The post First Auction Appearance: Legendary 1887 Morgan Dollar Error Heads to GreatCollections appeared first on CoinWeek: Rare Coin, Currency, and Bullion News for Collectors.

Experimental coins often reveal hidden chapters of Mint history. Occasionally, one surfaces in the most unexpected place. In this case, the discovery occurred inside a routine bag of cents.

A rare Martha Washington test piece discovered in 1999 provides an intriguing glimpse into metallurgical testing connected with the creation of the Sacagawea dollar. The unusual strike also demonstrates how older dies sometimes find new life during experimental production.

A Discovery in an Ordinary Bag of Cents

The story begins with an unlikely discovery. A Brinks employee reportedly found the piece while examining a bag of 1999 Lincoln cents. The coin immediately stood apart.

Instead of the familiar Lincoln portrait, the obverse displayed Martha Washington.

The experimental strike remains in Gem Mint State condition. Its surfaces show red and brown toning, which suggests minimal circulation after its creation.

The Coin World Revelation

The April 10, 2000 issue of Coin World reported important background information about these dies. According to that article, the Martha Washington/Mount Vernon dies had recently served in metallurgical die trial testing for the Sacagawea dollar.

However, soon after that initial article, numismatist Michael S. Byers brought the discovery coin to wider attention. His find appeared in a front-page article in the August 7, 2000 issue of Coin World [See Below]

There were questions if this was an actual U.S. Mint product. After further investigation the Die Trial revelation provided key context on experimental testing and the use of Martha Washington dies by outside firms to run these tests for the U.S. Mint.

Die trials play an essential role in coin production. Engineers and metallurgists use them to test planchet compositions, striking pressure, and die durability. As a result, test strikes sometimes appear on unexpected planchets or with incomplete designs.

The discovery of this Unusual and Unique Martha Washington cent led to the U.S. Mint’s acknowledgement of their experiments for the Sacagawea Dollar with Martha Washington dies in 1999.

Design Details of the Test Strike

The experimental piece carries several distinctive features.

The obverse shows a right-facing bust of Martha Washington. The inscription MARTHA WASHINGTON appears in the right field. Above the portrait sits the word VIRGINIA, while the date 1759 appears below.

The coin struck on a 2.5-gram zinc-copper cent planchet, the same basic composition used for modern Lincoln cents.

However, the strike did not produce a normal coin. Instead, the piece shows a 10 percent off-center strike and a uniface reverse. In other words, the reverse displays no design.

These unusual characteristics strongly support its role as a die trial experimental strike.

Not a Product of 1965

Early speculation once suggested the piece might date to 1965. However, evidence quickly disproved that theory.

Researchers determined that the U.S. Mint had distributed these dies to private vendors for testing purposes. Known recipients included IDX Inc., PMX Industries, and the Olin Brass Corporation.

These companies worked with the Mint to test planchets and metal compositions. Such testing often required striking coins using older dies. As a result, the Martha Washington dies resurfaced decades after their original use.

The U.S. Patterns website and United States Pattern, Experimental and Trial Pieces by J. Hewitt Judd list this unique Martha Washington cent test piece under 1982 since it was struck on a 2.5 gram copper plated zinc planchet and the Mint began using them in October of 1982.

Auction Appearances

After the discovery gained publicity, the piece entered the numismatic marketplace.

The coin first appeared in an eBay offering by Michael S. Byers. Later, it crossed the auction block in three notable sales:

• Lot 1972 in Ira & Larry Goldberg’s October 2000 sale
• Lot 996 in Bowers and Merena’s January 2003 sale
• Lot 2902 in Heritage May 30, 2008 Sale

These appearances brought wider attention to the unusual trial strike.

Ongoing Questions About the Dies

Despite the available documentation, some uncertainty remains. Specialists still debate whether the dies used in the trial originated from cent or dime die sets.

However, at least one example struck on a cent planchet has been documented by Michael Byers.

Regardless of the exact die classification, the piece stands as a fascinating relic of modern Mint experimentation.

Why This Coin Matters

Experimental strikes rarely reach collectors. Most remain inside laboratories or Mint archives.

However, a small number escape into circulation or private hands. When that happens, they provide rare evidence of the testing process that shapes U.S. coinage.

The Martha Washington test piece represents one such survival. It connects several different stories at once:

• Early American commemorative designs
• Modern Mint metallurgical testing
• Development of the Sacagawea dollar

Even more remarkably, the coin emerged not from a laboratory archive but from a bag of ordinary cents.

For collectors, discoveries like this remind us that the history of coinage often hides in plain sight.

And sometimes, the most fascinating pieces appear where no one expects them.

The post Unique Martha Washington Cent Test Piece Linked to Sacagawea Dollar Trials appeared first on CoinWeek: Rare Coin, Currency, and Bullion News for Collectors.

The 1944-D Lincoln Steel Cent ranks among the most important error coins in United States numismatics. Collectors prize it for its rarity, its dramatic origin story, and its connection to the famous 1943 bronze cent error.

Only an estimated 7 to 10 examples exist today. As a result, demand remains intense. Moreover, certified populations confirm their elite status among 20th-century mint errors.

A Wartime Mistake at the Denver Mint

In 1943, the United States Mint struck Lincoln cents on zinc-plated steel planchets to conserve copper for the war effort. In 1944, the Mint returned to a copper-based alloy.

However, leftover 1943 steel planchets remained in the production stream. Consequently, mint workers struck a small number of 1944-dated cents on steel planchets by mistake.

This error mirrors the famous 1943 bronze cent. Yet it represents the opposite mistake. In 1943, a few bronze planchets slipped into production. In 1944, steel planchets did.

Although collectors celebrate the 1943 bronze cent more widely, the 1944 steel cents remain exceptionally rare. In fact, professional grading data supports that conclusion.

Discovery of the 1944-D Steel Cent

The second known 1944-D steel cent surfaced in 1966 in California. A 23-year-old collector named Robert Collins found the coin in circulation in Pacifica CA.

Collins regularly swapped copper cents for steel cents whenever he found one in change. On this occasion, he noticed something unusual. The coin carried a 1944 date but showed the silver-gray appearance of steel.

He brought the piece to two coin dealers. They found no reason to doubt it. Afterward, the coin went to noted authenticator Walter Breen, who declared it genuine.

At the time, newspapers reported the discovery with the headline: “Pacifican Finds Penny, One of 2 in the World.” A photocopy of that article accompanied the coin in later auction appearances.

Today, experts estimate that about 10 examples of the 1944-D steel cent survive. Therefore, the Collins coin represents one of the earliest confirmed specimens.

Importance in U.S. Error Coinage

The 1944-D steel cent stands as a major 20th-century mint error. It serves as the counterpart to the 1943 bronze cent.

In 2010, Nicholas Brown, David Camire, and Fred Weinberg ranked it #15 in 100 Greatest U.S. Error Coins. That ranking cemented its place among the most celebrated American mint mistakes.

Interestingly, collectors did not always value the coin at six-figure levels. Twenty years ago, examples sold for a fraction of today’s prices. Over time, however, registry competition and broader awareness drove values higher.

Population Data and Market Reality (As of May 2025)

Professional Coin Grading Service (PCGS) and Numismatic Guaranty Company (NGC) confirm the coin’s extreme rarity.

Top Certified Populations (5/2025):

• PCGS MS63: 1 example
• NGC MS62: 1 example
• CAC MS62: 1 stickered example (1:0 stickered to graded)

PCGS reports a surviving population of seven 1944-D steel cents. Meanwhile, the Philadelphia Mint examples number a few dozen. Even so, Denver Mint coins remain far scarcer.

Record Sales and Notable Auction Results

• Prices reflect rarity and condition.

  

• MS63 NGC (August 2007) realized $115,000.
• MS63 PCGS Secure (January 2013) realized $82,250.
• The same PCGS MS63 example brought $79,312.50 in August 2013.

That MS63 PCGS coin now ranks as the finest certified example across PCGS and NGC populations. Notably, NGC no longer lists the earlier MS63 coin, and experts confirm the two coins do not match.

Lower-grade examples also command strong prices:

• NGC MS62 (January 2008) realized $92,000.
• NGC MS61 (January 2012), the Robert Collins discovery coin, realized $58,201.50.
• AU55 NGC (June 2010, Brenda John Collection) realized $60,375 after conservation and a five-point upgrade.
• ANACS AU55 (May 2007) realized $69,000.
• PCGS AU53 examples traded between $30,550 and $37,375 from 2010 to 2013.
• NGC AU Details – Cleaned (November 2023) realized $21,600.

Earlier auction records from the 1990s and early 2000s show four-figure prices. However, modern registry demand transformed the market.

Famous Collections and Provenance

Several advanced collectors pursued these off-metal errors.

Bob R. Simpson assembled a groundbreaking set of 1943 and 1944 P-D-S off-metal strike Lincoln cents. His collection included a 1944-D steel cent that later crossed from NGC MS63 to PCGS MS62 with CAC approval.

Brenda John owned two examples of the 1944-D steel cent. Her coins appeared in major Heritage Auctions sales in 2010.

These pedigrees strengthen market confidence. Moreover, provenance often enhances value for elite error coins.

Design of the 1944-D Lincoln Wheat Cent

Obverse

Victor David Brenner designed the obverse. A right-facing portrait of Abraham Lincoln dominates the field.

• IN GOD WE TRUST appears at the top inside the rim.
• LIBERTY sits to the left of Lincoln.
• The date 1944 appears to the right.
• The “D” mintmark sits below the date.

Brenner’s initials “VDB” appear on the shoulder bevel on post-1918 issues.

Reverse

The reverse features:

• ONE CENT at the center top.
• UNITED STATES OF AMERICA below.
• E PLURIBUS UNUM arcing along the upper rim.
• Two stylized wheat ears framing the design.

Collectors often call this type the “Wheat Cent” for that reason.

Coin Specifications

• Country: United States of America
• Year: 1944
• Denomination: One Cent
• Mintmark: D (Denver)
• Estimated Survivors: 7–10 known
• Alloy: Zinc-coated steel
• Weight: 2.7 grams
• Diameter: 19.0 mm
• Edge: Plain
• Designer: Victor David Brenner
• Strike Type: Business Strike

Why the 1944-D Steel Cent Matters Today

The 1944-D Lincoln Steel Cent represents a dramatic wartime production error. It links directly to the alloy transition of 1943 and 1944. Furthermore, it remains obtainable, at least in theory, at prices below the legendary 1943 bronze cent.

Nevertheless, its certified population confirms extreme rarity. Registry competition continues. Therefore, demand should remain strong for high-grade and well-pedigreed examples.

For collectors of elite U.S. error coins, the 1944-D steel cent stands as a cornerstone rarity.

The post 1944-D Lincoln Steel Cent : A Collector’s Guide appeared first on CoinWeek: Rare Coin, Currency, and Bullion News for Collectors.

Only seven examples of the 1943-S bronze cent are confirmed. This coin ranks as the third finest known. Moreover, it is the only 1943 bronze cent from any Mint to carry a Gold CAC sticker. That distinction alone places it in elite company.

Yet numbers tell only part of the story. The true power of the 1943 bronze cent lies in its myth, its mystery, and its enduring place in American culture.

The Coin That Launched a National Treasure Hunt

Few U.S. coins capture the imagination like the “1943 copper penny.”

During the 1940s, 1950s, and 1960s, millions of Americans searched their pocket change for this elusive rarity. Rumors circulated that the Ford Motor Company would award a new car to anyone who found one. Publicity stunts fueled the frenzy. As a result, the 1943 bronze cent became one of the only U.S. Mint rarities known as well to the general public as to seasoned collectors.

The dream still lives. However, today the search centers on advanced numismatists who wait for one of the confirmed examples to reappear after years in tightly held collections.

Wartime America and the Steel Cent Experiment

To understand this coin, we must return to 1943.

The United States was fully engaged in World War II. Copper was classified as a critical war material. The metal was essential for artillery shell cases and other military equipment. Therefore, Congress authorized the Treasury Department in 1942 to seek an alternative composition for the cent.

The Mint experimented with aluminum, plastic, pressed fiber, and even glass. Ultimately, officials chose zinc-coated steel.

The result proved problematic.

Zinc corrodes to a powdery white surface. Meanwhile, exposed steel rusts. Complaints mounted quickly. Many Americans mistook the new steel cents for dimes. By mid-1943, the Mint recognized that the experiment had failed.

Nevertheless, production numbers were massive:

• Philadelphia Mint: 684,628,670
• Denver Mint: 217,660,000
• San Francisco Mint: 191,550,000

In total, more than one billion steel cents entered circulation in 1943.

By 1944, the Mint returned to bronze planchets. It sourced metal from recycled shell casings expended on battlefields around the world.

How Did Bronze Cents Escape in 1943?

Despite careful planning, a small number of bronze planchets found their way into presses striking 1943-dated cents.

Most researchers accept a straightforward explanation. Leftover bronze blanks from 1942 likely mixed with new steel planchets. They passed through the presses. Then they escaped quality control and entered circulation.

Jeff Garrett and Ron Guth summarized this widely accepted theory in 100 Greatest U.S. Coins (5th edition, 2019). They describe the coins as wrong-planchet errors that slipped into commerce during wartime production pressures.

However, controversy persists.

Some numismatists have questioned whether certain examples were struck intentionally. They cite the unique 1943-D bronze cent, which traces to a former Denver Mint employee. Others point to a two-coin set of a 1943 bronze and 1944 steel cent once sold by an acquaintance of former Mint Engraver John R. Sinnock.

Further complicating matters, researchers have identified multiple alloy compositions among surviving examples. Author Roger W. Burdette also uncovered documentation that confirms experimental cents struck on shell-case metal in late 1943.

Even so, most collectors see no distinction. A 1943 bronze cent remains a 1943 bronze cent.

Confirmed Survivors: Rarity in Stark Numbers

The census tells a sobering story.

Research published by Saul Teichman on the Newman Numismatic Portal confirms:

• 17 examples of the 1943 bronze cent from Philadelphia
• 7 examples from San Francisco
• 1 unique example from Denver

The lone 1943-D bronze cent, graded MS-64 BN by PCGS, realized $840,000 in January 2021 in the Bob R. Simpson Collection sale at Heritage Auctions.

Importantly, most known pieces show evidence of circulation. That detail supports the theory that these coins entered commerce accidentally.

One recent example underscores that point. A 1943-S bronze cent graded VF-30 by PCGS surfaced in 2023. A California collector had found it in circulation decades earlier. The coin remains with its discoverer and has never appeared for sale.

The March 10 Offering: Third Finest Known

Now, attention turns to the March 10 sale.

This 1943-S Bronze Lincoln Cent carries a PCGS grade of AU-55. Yet the grade tells only part of the story. The coin retains softly frosted luster on both sides. Strike detail remains nearly complete. Only minor friction confirms brief circulation.

Moreover, the surfaces display warm chocolate-brown color with hints of autumn-orange. Subtle lilac-blue and pale pink undertones enhance its eye appeal. Small identifying marks, including a minor line near Lincoln’s forehead and a tiny reverse field divot above “ST” in STATES, allow future verification.

Most notably, this coin is the only 1943 bronze cent from any Mint to receive Gold CAC approval. The Gold sticker signifies that CAC considers the coin undergraded for its assigned level. The population of Gold CAC-approved examples stands at just one.

Provenance of a Numismatic Icon

This piece carries a distinguished pedigree:

• Ex Fred Weinberg (1979)
• Ex Dwight Berger (1983)
• Sorensen Collection (acquired in the 1980s)
• Certified by PCGS in fall 2015
• Previously authenticated by ANACS
• Offered in Heritage’s January 2016 FUN Signature Auction, lot 5267

Such provenance reinforces confidence. It also adds depth to an already compelling narrative.

Why the 1943 Bronze Cent Endures

The 1943 bronze cent ranks No. 11 in 100 Greatest U.S. Coins (2019 edition). It also holds the No. 4 position in 100 Greatest U.S. Error Coins (2010) by Nicolas P. Brown, David J. Camire, and Fred Weinberg.

No other coin appears in both rankings.

That dual recognition reflects its unique status. Technically, it is a Mint error. Culturally, it is an American legend.

For generations, it symbolized the possibility that extraordinary value might hide in ordinary change. That idea resonates deeply. It explains why the 1943 bronze cent still commands headlines, and record prices.

On March 10, bidders competeee not only for a rarity but also for a piece of American numismatic folklore. The coin sold for $456,000

And once again, the dream will feel alive.

The post Legendary 1943-S Bronze Lincoln Cent Returns to the Market appeared first on CoinWeek: Rare Coin, Currency, and Bullion News for Collectors.

The 1971 “No S” Proof Jefferson Nickel (FS-501) ranks among the most important modern United States coin rarities. Moreover, it holds a unique distinction. It remains the only proof coin in the entire Jefferson Nickel series struck without its intended mintmark.

Collectors often overlook Jefferson Nickels when discussing elite modern errors. However, this coin demands serious attention. A simple oversight at the Mint created one of the most coveted proof varieties of the 20th century.

The Origin of the 1971 No S Error – A Mintmark Oversight

In 1971, the San Francisco Mint struck all proof coinage. However, the Philadelphia Mint prepared the dies. At the time, mint employees punched mintmarks into proof dies by hand. That manual process created risk.

In this case, one obverse die left Philadelphia without receiving the required “S” mintmark. Consequently, San Francisco struck proof nickels using a die that lacked its identifying mintmark.

The error affected just one obverse die.

Importantly, this mistake occurred during an era when several No-S proof varieties surfaced. Other denominations experienced similar omissions, including proof dimes in 1968, 1970, 1975, and 1983, and later the 1990 No-S Lincoln Cent. Yet none share the same distinction within their series as the 1971 nickel.

This issue stands alone in the Jefferson Nickel series.

Discovery and Authentication

The first reported example surfaced in a 1971 Proof Set on December 29, 1971. Numismatic experts quickly investigated. Subsequently, the United States Mint confirmed the coin’s authenticity.

Because the Mint sold proof coins only in sets, collectors cannot find this variety in circulation. Instead, every known specimen originated in a 1971 Proof Set.

Official Mintage: A Rare Precise Figure

Many modern mintmark errors lack documented production totals. However, this case differs.

The United States Mint reported that 1,655 examples of the 1971 No S Proof Jefferson Nickel were struck. That unusually precise figure sets this variety apart from other No-S errors.

Nevertheless, survival estimates suggest far fewer remain today.

Third-party grading data supports that conclusion. For example, certification totals from major grading services show only a fraction of the reported mintage. Many coins likely remain undiscovered in original proof sets.

Design and Specifications

The 1971 No S Proof Nickel belongs to the long-running Jefferson Nickel series, which began in 1938.

Obverse

Felix Schlag designed the obverse portrait of Thomas Jefferson facing left. The motto IN GOD WE TRUST appears along the left periphery. Meanwhile, LIBERTY and the date 1971 appear on the right.

Normally, an “S” mintmark sits just below the date. On this variety, that mintmark does not appear. Schlag’s initials “FS” rest below Jefferson’s bust.

Reverse

Monticello stands centered on the reverse. The name MONTICELLO appears beneath the building. Additionally, E PLURIBUS UNUM and UNITED STATES OF AMERICA frame the upper and lower periphery. The denomination FIVE CENTS appears in a semicircle below.

Rarity and Population Data

Although the Mint reported 1,655 struck, certified populations tell a more nuanced story.

Several hundred examples exist in standard Proof grades without cameo contrast.

Cameo-designated pieces number in the low hundreds.

Deep Cameo examples remain scarce.

Estimates suggest no more than about 50 Deep Cameo examples exist.

In PR69 Ultra/Deep Cameo, population figures remain extremely small, with none finer reported at the top tier.

Therefore, collectors compete fiercely for high-grade examples.

Deep Cameo: Why It Matters

During the early 1970s, proof coins did not consistently display strong frosted devices. In fact, heavy contrast became common only in the late 1970s and early 1980s.

As a result, Deep Cameo examples of the 1971 No S nickel remain exceptional.

The finest certified coins command significant premiums. In 2016, a PCGS PR69 Deep Cameo specimen realized $7,637.50 at Heritage Auctions, establishing a public record for the variety at that time.

Current Market Value

Values vary by grade and contrast designation:

• PR63 (no cameo): Around $800
• PR68: Approximately $1,100
• PR68CAM: Slightly higher than standard PR68
• PR68DCAM: Around $2,850
• PR69DCAM: Record results exceed $7,600

Naturally, eye appeal, certification, and market timing influence prices.

Even so, the 1971 No S Proof Jefferson Nickel remains one of the most affordable elite modern rarities. That balance of scarcity and attainability fuels strong demand.

How to Verify a 1971 No S Proof Nickel

Collectors must exercise caution. A normal 1971 Philadelphia circulation nickel lacks a mintmark. However, it differs dramatically from a proof strike.

Look for these diagnostics:

• Mirror-like fields with sharp reflectivity.
• Squared rims typical of proof coinage.
• Exceptional strike quality, especially on Monticello.
• Origin from a 1971 Proof Set.

Circulation strikes display satin or business-strike surfaces. They lack the reflective fields and refined detail of a proof.

Authentication by a major grading service remains the safest path.

Why the 1971 No S Nickel Matters

The 1971 No S Proof Jefferson Nickel represents more than a mint error. It reflects an era when mintmarks were punched manually. It also documents a transitional period in modern proof production.

Most importantly, it stands alone.

No other Jefferson Nickel proof issue lacks its intended mintmark. Therefore, the 1971 No S Proof (FS-501) occupies a permanent place among the most important modern United States coin varieties.

For collectors pursuing key modern errors, this coin remains essential.

Sources

• United States Mint confirmation of mintage figure (1,655 struck)
• Walter Breen, Walter Breen’s Complete Encyclopedia of U.S. and Colonial Coins (1988)
• Joshua McMorrow-Hernandez, “The 1971 No-S Proof Nickel,” CoinWeek (September 30, 2021)
• Heritage Auctions public sale records (2016)

CoinWeek Insight:

Opportunities still exist. Unopened 1971 Proof Sets remain in dealer inventories and private holdings. While most sets contain the normal 1971-S nickel, the possibility of discovery continues to drive collector excitement.

The 1971 “No S” Proof Jefferson Nickel endures as one of modern numismatics’ most compelling stories—proof that even a small oversight can create a legendary rarity.

The post 1971 “No S” Proof Jefferson Nickel: The Only Missing Mintmark in the Series appeared first on CoinWeek: Rare Coin, Currency, and Bullion News for Collectors.

In August 2024, an extremely rare 1861-D $1 Gold with a dramatic lamination mint error realized $26,400 at the Stack’s Bowers Galleries August 2024 Global Showcase Auction, Session 3 – Rarities Night (Lot 3274).

At first glance, PCGS certified the coin as AU Details, identifying a planchet flaw, and encapsulated it in a PCGS Genuine holder. However, that label does not fully explain the coin’s significance. In reality, this piece represents a true Mint error. The correct terminology is lamination.

That distinction matters. Moreover, it directly affects how collectors evaluate rarity, desirability, and long-term value.

The Only U.S. Coin Struck Entirely Under Confederate Authority

The 1861-D gold dollar occupies a singular place in American numismatics. The Dahlonega Mint struck this issue in Dahlonega, Georgia, during the opening months of the Civil War. Most importantly, it stands as the only United States coin struck entirely under Confederate authority.

The Dahlonega Mint closed in June 1861. By that time, it had produced a very small number of gold dollars dated 1861-D.

PCGS estimates a mintage of 1,000 pieces. Meanwhile, the A Guide Book of United States Coins lists an estimate of 1,250. Regardless of which figure one prefers, the total output remains extremely limited. Survivors remain rare in every grade.

Furthermore, the mint struck all 1861-D gold dollars from a single die pair. Production quality suffered during this chaotic period. As a result, many examples display defects such as splits, cracks, and laminations. These flaws do not represent damage. Instead, they reflect the working conditions and metallurgical challenges of a Southern branch mint operating amid political upheaval.

Understanding the Lamination Mint Error

Stack’s Bowers described the coin as “minimally marked and unusually well-composed for the assigned grade,” noting wispy hairlines solely for accuracy. Upon close inspection in hand, the coin displays strong eye appeal, considerable luster, and original surfaces with attractive toning.

I would conservatively assign the piece a minimum grade of AU 55. However, several world-class experts specializing in early Branch Mint U.S. gold examined the coin in person and graded it AU 58. More importantly, they agreed that the piece qualifies as a Mint error and belongs in a standard PCGS holder with a numerical grade and a Mint Error designation.

The lamination occurred during the rolling of the gold strip that created the planchets. Metal impurities or stress within the strip caused a fissure in the metal before striking. When the dies struck the planchet, the defect appeared on the finished coin. Therefore, the flaw originated at the Mint during manufacture.

This fact proves crucial. Collectors routinely distinguish between post-strike damage and Mint-made errors. In this case, the lamination formed before the coin left the dies. Consequently, the coin reflects the minting process itself.

A Market Comparison That Tells the Story

The broader market confirms the importance of the 1861-D gold dollar. Recently, Heritage Auctions sold two PCGS AU 55 examples for $72,000 and $78,000. In addition, Heritage realized $84,000 and $96,000 for two PCGS AU 58 specimens.

Those results provide critical context. Against that backdrop, $26,400 represents a compelling price for a high-end almost uncirculated example with a dramatic Mint-made lamination.

Rarity drives the equation. Condition amplifies it. Historical significance elevates it even further.

This piece exhibits considerable luster, strong remaining detail, and original surfaces. Moreover, it ranks among the more visually appealing examples available to collectors. When experts consider both grade and error status, the value proposition becomes clear.

The Second Most Valuable Gold Dollar in the Series

The 1861-D stands as the second most valuable gold dollar in the entire series. Only the 1849-C Open Wreath variety surpasses it in overall value and prestige.

That ranking underscores the importance of every surviving example. Collectors pursuing complete gold dollar sets face formidable challenges when they reach the 1861-D. Even well-worn pieces command strong prices. High-end almost uncirculated examples command premium attention.

Therefore, this lamination Mint error carries layered appeal. It represents a scarce Confederate-era branch mint issue. It displays a dramatic Mint-made defect that tells the story of wartime production. And it offers strong eye appeal in a desirable grade range.

In short, this coin embodies American history in gold. It connects collectors directly to a turbulent moment in 1861. At the same time, it highlights the importance of accurate attribution and careful examination.

For advanced collectors and serious investors alike, the 1861-D gold dollar remains a cornerstone rarity. This particular example, with its confirmed lamination Mint error and strong technical quality, stands as one of the notable opportunities of 2024.

The post Extremely Rare 1861-D $1 Gold Lamination Mint Error appeared first on CoinWeek: Rare Coin, Currency, and Bullion News for Collectors.

By Jon Sullivan for PCGS ……

Missing Clad Layer Error Coins: A Definitive Collector’s Guide

In 1965, the United States changed its coinage forever. Rising silver prices forced the United States Mint to remove precious metal from circulating dimes and quarters. For the first time since 1792, when the Mint struck its earliest coins in Philadelphia, everyday American coinage no longer relied on silver.

Then, in 1971, the Mint extended that shift to half dollars and dollar coins. Copper-nickel clad coinage had fully replaced traditional silver issues in circulation.

However, this major transition did more than alter metal content. It also introduced one of the most dramatic and collectible modern mint errors: the missing clad layer.

The Birth of Clad Coinage – and a New Error Type

Clad coinage consists of three bonded layers of metal. A pure copper core sits between two outer nickel layers. When struck, the finished coin displays the familiar silver-colored surfaces that most Americans recognize.

Yet this bonded structure also creates the potential for failure. When bonding problems occur, a striking visual error appears. That error leaves copper exposed on one side of the coin. Collectors call it a missing clad layer.

At its simplest, a missing clad layer coin lacks one of its outer nickel layers. As a result, the coin shows copper on one side and nickel on the other. In addition, the coin weighs about 15% less than a properly bonded example.

Collectors recognize three distinct forms of this error: full, partial, and dual missing clad layers. Each type reflects how much of the outer metal layer failed to bond.

How the Mint Creates Clad Coins

To understand the error, you must first understand the production process.

The Mint begins with long strips of bonded metal called planchet strips. Workers bond nickel to both sides of a central copper strip under immense pressure and heat. If the process succeeds, the metals fuse securely. The finished strip resembles a sandwich, with copper in the center and nickel forming the outer layers.

Next, machines punch circular blanks from this strip. Those blanks then pass through upsetting mills and finally into coin presses, where the dies strike them into finished coins.

When bonding holds firm, the coin leaves the press intact. However, when bonding fails, problems appear.

How Missing Clad Layers Occur

In some cases, the nickel layer does not adhere properly to the copper core. The bonding may weaken during manufacturing. Then, when the blanking press punches out planchets, the poorly bonded nickel separates. The blank moves forward without one clad layer attached.

Later, when the Mint strikes that blank, the coin emerges with one copper face and one nickel face. This process creates what collectors call a full missing clad layer error.

Another scenario involves strip alignment. If one nickel strip runs shorter than the copper core during bonding, the end of the bonded strip will expose raw copper. When workers punch blanks from this section, some blanks will lack a full clad layer. Others will display partial separation where nickel and copper meet. Those coins enter circulation as partial missing clad layer errors.

In every case, the problem originates in the bonded strip before striking begins.

Full, Partial, and Dual Missing Clad Layers

A full missing clad layer coin displays complete copper exposure on one side. Collectors describe these pieces as either obverse missing clad layer or reverse missing clad layer, depending on which side lacks nickel. This variety appears most frequently in the marketplace.

A partial missing clad layer retains some nickel on the affected side. For example, if roughly 25% of the outer layer separates, collectors describe the coin as a 25% partial missing clad layer. These errors rank as the second most common type and remain readily available.

The rarest and most dramatic form is the dual missing clad layer. In this case, both outer nickel layers separate from the copper core. The coin shows copper on both sides and weighs approximately 30% less than a normal example.

Dual missing clad layer errors remain extraordinarily rare. Fewer than 10 examples exist for Roosevelt dimes. Experts report five to 10 known for Washington quarters. Only one example has surfaced for Kennedy half dollars. None are known for the dollar coin series.

Because of that rarity, dual missing clad layers rarely appear for sale. When examples reach the market, they typically sell for $1,000 to $5,000, depending on condition and series.

Random Orientation — Obverse or Reverse?

Collectors often ask why one side is missing instead of the other. The answer is simple: chance.

The blank enters the coining press randomly. If the copper side faces the obverse die, the struck coin becomes an obverse missing clad layer. If the copper side faces the reverse die, the reverse displays the exposed copper.

The Mint exerts no control over that orientation. Therefore, the result remains completely random.

Market Preferences and Series Differences

In most denominations, collectors prefer obverse missing clad layer coins. Consequently, obverse examples often bring roughly twice the price of reverse examples.

However, two modern quarter series reverse that preference: the 50 State Quarters and the America the Beautiful Quarters.

These programs highlight state and park designs on the reverse. As a result, collectors strongly prefer reverse missing clad layers for these coins. In many cases, reverse examples sell for five to 10 times more than obverse examples.

Missing clad layers appear across most modern denominations, including dimes, quarters, half dollars, and small dollar coins. However, the Eisenhower Dollar remains scarce with this error. Only a small number of examples exist.

Proof missing clad layer errors also exist, though they remain extremely rare. When offered publicly, they often sell for thousands of dollars.

Building a Missing Clad Layer Collection

Collectors approach missing clad layers in several ways. Some pursue a single example from each denomination. Others collect by date and mintmark, building comprehensive runs from 1965 to the present.

For example, a collector may assemble obverse missing clad layer Roosevelt dimes for every year of issue. That goal remains achievable with patience.

More ambitious collectors attempt a reverse missing clad layer example for each state in the state quarter program. While challenging, the goal remains possible. Most states appear with some regularity. However, later issues grow significantly scarcer. States such as Oklahoma and Arizona rank among the rarest, with perhaps five or six known for the most elusive entries.

A Modern Error with Lasting Appeal

Missing clad layer errors represent one of the most visually striking modern U.S. mint errors. They trace directly to the historic removal of silver from circulating coinage in 1965. They also offer measurable weight differences and unmistakable copper exposure.

For collectors, they combine history, manufacturing drama, and strong market demand. Above all, they stand as a reminder that even modern minting technology cannot eliminate every production flaw.

In the world of modern U.S. numismatics, few errors capture attention as quickly — or as convincingly — as a missing clad layer.

* * *

The post Missing-Clad Layer Mint Error Coins appeared first on CoinWeek: Rare Coin, Currency, and Bullion News for Collectors.

Off-metal errors rank among the most compelling artifacts in American numismatics. Those linked to World War II hold even greater appeal. One such piece stands apart: a 1945-D Lincoln Cent struck on a 75% silver Philippines 10 Centavos planchet.

For the date, no other example exists.

A Confirmed World War II Mint Error

This 1945-D Lincoln Cent represents one of only two documented Lincoln Cents struck on Philippines 10 Centavos planchets that either PCGS or NGC has authenticated and certified. It remains the only confirmed example dated 1945-D.

The second example carries a 1944-D date. PCGS certified that coin as AU 58. Heritage Auctions later sold it for $7,800.

Together, these coins form a narrowly defined group of wartime off-metal errors.

Foreign Coinage at U.S. Mints

From the mid-19th century through the 1980s, the United States Mint struck coins for foreign governments. The facilities in Philadelphia, Denver, and San Francisco all took part in this work.

During World War II, production expanded to support allied nations. The United States struck coinage for the Philippines, which remained under U.S. sovereignty at the time.

On rare occasions, those blanks mixed with domestic coinage stock. That process produced off-metal errors that collectors now prize.

Silver planchet errors from this period attract exceptional demand due to their rarity and historical setting.

Physical Characteristics of the 1945-D Coin

The 1945-D Lincoln Cent shows strong visual appeal. The strike centers well on the planchet. The coin displays a full portrait and a complete date.

Original mint luster remains visible. Natural toning covers the surfaces.

These traits allow the coin to fit comfortably into advanced collections. Collectors may include it in Lincoln Cent sets, mint error collections, or specialized cabinets of unique U.S. coins.

Extreme Rarity Confirmed

Lincoln Cents struck on Philippines planchets from World War II remain exceptionally rare. Only three examples exist.

In addition to the two cents struck on 10 Centavos planchets, one other example survives. That coin carries a 1944 date and rests on a Philippines 5 Centavos planchet. PCGS certified it as MS 62. Heritage Auctions sold it for $6,462.50.

No other examples have surfaced.

A Singular Numismatic Artifact

With just three confirmed examples known, the class remains extremely limited. Within that group, the 1945-D Lincoln Cent struck on a 75% silver Philippines 10 Centavos planchet stands alone by date.

Its rarity, wartime origin, and state of preservation place it among the most important off-metal Lincoln Cent errors known today.

The post Unique 1945-D Lincoln Cent Struck on a Philippines 10 Centavos Silver Planchet appeared first on CoinWeek: Rare Coin, Currency, and Bullion News for Collectors.

Among the most sought-after Lincoln cent varieties are doubled dies. Many collectors recognize famous issues such as the 1955, 1969-S, 1972, 1983, and 1995 doubled-die coins. Numerous additional varieties exist, though most remain familiar only to specialists.

One doubled die, however, occupies a category of rarity and value unmatched by any other Lincoln cent.

That coin is the 1958 Doubled Die Lincoln cent.

A Confirmed Population of Just Three Coins

The 1958 Doubled Die Lincoln cent carries the attribution FS-101 (Class I) and exists in only three confirmed examples. The PCGS Population Report records all three grading events.

That total is extraordinary. Collectors pursue the Lincoln cent more aggressively than almost any other U.S. series. Yet no additional confirmed examples have appeared in more than six decades.

This level of scarcity reinforces the difficulty of completing a Lincoln cent set that includes all major varieties.

Dramatic Hub Doubling Visible Without Magnification

From a technical perspective, the 1958 Doubled Die Lincoln cent stands out immediately.

The obverse shows bold hub doubling that collectors can see without magnification. The inscriptions IN GOD WE TRUST and LIBERTY display wide, well-separated doubling. The date also shows clear duplication, with the 8 exhibiting especially strong separation.

The doubling rivals that of the famous 1955 and 1972 Doubled Die Obverse cents. Availability creates the difference. Those varieties exist in far greater numbers. By contrast, the 1958 doubled die remains effectively unobtainable for most collectors.

Discovery and Early Recognition

The discovery specimen emerged around 1960, when Philadelphia collector Charles Ludovico searched through a $50 face-value bag of 1958 Lincoln cents. He identified the doubled die and submitted the coin to the United States Mint, where officials confirmed its authenticity.

Even after that confirmation, the variety drew little attention for many years.

Public documentation did not occur until 1983 or 1984, when ERRORAMA of Cherry Hill, New Jersey reported the coin. Scholarly recognition followed in 1996, when David W. Lange included the variety in The Complete Guide to Lincoln Cents. At that time, collectors knew of only one certified example.

Certification History and Known Examples

The original discovery coin received an MS64 Red grade from ANACS before later crossing into a PCGS holder at the same grade.

Today, all three confirmed examples reside in PCGS holders:

• One PCGS MS65RD, with CAC Sticker from the Stewart Blay Collection that was auctioned by GreatCollections in 2023. PCGS Cert #44549597 (w photo)
• One PCGS MS64RD example offered by Stack’s Bowers Galleries in March of 2018 and pedigred to the EMS Collection. PCGS Cert #4997055 (no Photo)
• The Third MS64RD is beleived to the the original discovery coin, mentioned above. It has NO Sales records or auction appearances. PCGS does Not have a photo of the coin but they do have a PCGS Cert # 02681537 (no Photo)

No additional examples have been authenticated.

Auction History and Seven-Figure Benchmark

The market record for the 1958 Doubled Die Lincoln cent reflects persistent demand despite its fixed population.

• 1996 – the first certified example realized $25,025
• 2000 – the same coin sold for $57,500 after crossing into a PCGS holder
• March 2018 – a PCGS MS64RD example sold $336,000 at a Stacks Bowers auction.
• In January 2023,  GreatCollections auctioned the PCGS MS65RD example from the Stewart Blay Collection for $1,136,250.

That result firmly established the 1958 Doubled Die Lincoln cent as a seven-figure modern U.S. coin rarity.

Condition and Numismatic Importance

The Stack’s Bowers  MS64RD example exhibits a satiny finish with full light rose luster. A light obverse haze appears to have limited the grade. The strike is strong overall, though minor softness is visible at the base of Lincoln’s bust and in the corresponding reverse area near the letter O in ONE.

Despite these traits, the coin displays solid Choice quality and ranks among the most important Lincoln cents of any variety ever offered at public auction.

The GreatCollections MS65RD is an outstanding coin with exceptional Eye Appeal with a vibrant red color. The strike is sharp amd the doubling is obvious. Overall and exceptiona gem and worthy of being the Finest known.

A Defining Rarity of Modern U.S. Coinage

The 1958 Doubled Die Lincoln cent stands among the leading U.S. Mint varieties of the 20th century. Its combination of bold doubling, a confirmed population of three, and a verified seven-figure auction result places it in a category shared by very few postwar United States coins.

For most collectors, ownership will remain unattainable. Yet the coin continues to define the upper limit of achievement within the Lincoln cent series.

The post 1958 Doubled Die Remains One of the Most Elusive Lincoln Cent Varieties appeared first on CoinWeek: Rare Coin, Currency, and Bullion News for Collectors.

A VAM Dollar refers to a collectible die variety of a United States Morgan or Peace silver dollar. Collectors identify and catalog these varieties using the system developed by Leroy Van Allen and A. George Mallis, whose surnames form the acronym “VAM.”

These varieties result from differences in the working dies used to strike coins. Common diagnostics include doubled design elements, repunched mintmarks, die cracks, clashed dies, and other deviations that go beyond standard date-and-mint combinations. Importantly, all VAM dollars are normal, officially issued coins. However, some varieties are scarce, visually dramatic, or historically significant. As a result, they command strong interest from collectors and specialists.

Among hundreds of known VAMs, two 1888-O Morgan dollar varieties stand above the rest in terms of fame, demand, and market recognition: “Hot Lips” and “Scarface.”

The 1888-O “Hot Lips” Morgan Dollar

The 1888-O “Hot Lips” Morgan dollar ranks among the most famous die varieties in all of American numismatics.

Its appeal rests not only on its striking visual characteristics, but also on its central role in the development of Morgan dollar variety collecting.

A Coin That Changed Numismatic History

Before the early 1960s, Morgan dollars did not occupy the central place they hold in today’s hobby. That began to change when the U.S. Treasury Department released long-stored bags of uncirculated Morgan dollars into the marketplace. For the first time, collectors could search large quantities of coins directly. This shift made die variety collecting more accessible and more systematic.

A key moment occurred in 1963, when numismatist Francis X. Klaes published Die Varieties of Morgan Silver Dollars. The book included some of the first widely distributed photographs of Morgan dollar varieties. One of those illustrated coins was the 1888-O Hot Lips variety. Klaes is recognized as the discoverer of the variety.

Those images had a profound impact on Leroy Van Allen, who soon located a Hot Lips example of his own. That experience drew him deeply into variety research and ultimately led to the creation of the VAM cataloging system. Van Allen’s first book on Morgan dollar varieties appeared in 1971, marking a foundational moment for the field.

Dramatic Die Doubling

The defining feature of the Hot Lips variety is dramatic die doubling on the obverse portrait of Liberty.

Die doubling occurs when a working die receives more than one misaligned impression during its creation. When that die strikes coins, elements of the design appear doubled. In some cases, the effect is subtle. In others, it is unmistakable.

On the 1888-O Hot Lips dollar, the doubling is especially pronounced on Liberty’s lips. Strong examples show what appears to be a complete second set of lips superimposed over the upper lip. Additional doubling may also appear on the nose and other facial features. While doubled inscriptions are more familiar to many collectors—such as the famous 1955 Doubled Die Obverse Lincoln cent—this variety demonstrates how dramatic doubling can be in portrait details as well.

The nickname “Hot Lips” emerged organically from the coin’s appearance and has remained part of numismatic vocabulary ever since. While popular culture associations are sometimes suggested, no documented connection exists, and such parallels remain speculative.

Market Values and Collector Demand

The 1888-O Hot Lips remains a high-demand variety across all grades. About Uncirculated examples can reach prices near $10,000, while Mint State coins often exceed twice that level. Extra Fine specimens typically sell for several hundred dollars. Prices become comparatively accessible only in lower circulated grades, such as Fine.

The 1888-O “Scarface” Morgan Dollar

If Hot Lips is known for precision doubling, Scarface commands attention through sheer visual impact.

A Late-Stage Die Break

The 1888-O Scarface Morgan dollar features a prominent raised line that runs across Liberty’s cheek, jaw, and neck. The effect resembles a deep scar, giving the variety its enduring nickname.

This feature results from a late-stage die break. In numismatics, a die break refers to a crack in the die, not a complete fracture. A fully broken die would be incapable of striking coins. However, in advanced stages, these cracks can widen and deepen, producing bold raised lines on the struck coin.

Scarface represents one of these advanced die states, making it among the most dramatic die break varieties in the Morgan dollar series.

Understanding Die States

To fully appreciate Scarface, it helps to understand die states. Numismatists describe a die’s life cycle in three general stages:

• An early die state reflects a newly prepared die. Design elements appear sharp, surfaces are relatively clean, and defects are minimal.
• A middle die state shows increasing wear or minor repairs. Coins struck at this stage often display early cracks, polishing lines, or softened details.
• A late die state represents the final phase of a die’s usable life. These dies often exhibit extensive cracks, heavy wear, or metal displacement. While attractive coins can still result, quality was not the primary concern at this stage. The Mint’s priority was production.

Scarface originates from this final phase.

The New Orleans Mint Context

The New Orleans Mint served as the primary business-strike workhorse during much of the Morgan dollar era. Many New Orleans issues show weaker strikes compared to coins from other mints. Against that backdrop, a visually strong late-stage variety such as Scarface becomes especially desirable.

Low Mint State examples routinely command prices in the several-thousand-dollar range, reflecting both scarcity and collector demand.

Why These Varieties Matter

The enduring popularity of Hot Lips and Scarface underscores an important truth about coin collecting. Perfection alone does not define desirability. Instead, history, process, and character often matter just as much.

These two varieties illustrate the human and mechanical realities of 19th-century coinage. They also demonstrate how overlooked production quirks evolved into some of the most celebrated collectibles in the marketplace today.

More than a century after their creation, Hot Lips and Scarface remain benchmarks for Morgan dollar variety collecting—and gateways for new collectors entering the world of VAMs.

The post Hot Lips and Scarface: Two Dramatic 1888-O Morgan Dollar Varieties appeared first on CoinWeek: Rare Coin, Currency, and Bullion News for Collectors.

By Joshua McMorrow-Hernandez for PCGS ……

The 2005-D Speared Bison Nickel: A Modern Mint Variety Icon

Among modern U.S. coin varieties, few pieces spark as much curiosity as the 2005-D Speared Bison Jefferson Nickel. At first glance, the coin looks almost shocking. A long, raised line appears to pierce straight through the back of the American bison. For collectors encountering the coin for the first time, the effect feels deliberate, dramatic, and even humorous. However, the truth behind this famous variety proves far more technical—and far more fascinating.

A Familiar Design with an Unexpected Twist

In 2005, the United States Mint issued special Westward Journey Nickels to commemorate the Lewis and Clark Expedition. One reverse design featured an American bison, a clear homage to James Earle Fraser’s iconic Buffalo Nickel motif used from 1913 through 1938. While the design felt nostalgic, one unexpected flaw transformed a routine modern issue into a standout collectible.

Some Denver-minted examples display a prominent spike-like line running diagonally through the bison’s back. This feature earned the coin its memorable nickname: the “Speared Bison.”

What Caused the Speared Bison Variety?

Despite its dramatic appearance, the Speared Bison Nickel did not result from artistic mischief or experimental design. Instead, the variety formed because of a severe die break. Over time, the immense pressure and repeated use of a working die can cause metal fatigue. When the die fractures, molten metal flows into the crack during striking. As a result, a raised line appears on the finished coin.

Die breaks occur frequently in U.S. coinage. However, most examples show minor bumps or short cracks. In contrast, the Speared Bison die break created a bold, uninterrupted line. Because of its size and placement, the defect instantly captured attention and generated widespread interest among collectors.

Rapid Discovery and Early Market Buzz

Once collectors identified the Speared Bison Nickel, excitement spread quickly. Error and variety specialists recognized the piece as a major modern variety rather than a minor mint flaw. Consequently, prices surged almost immediately. Early examples traded for more than $100, even before population data became clear.

This rapid demand helped cement the Speared Bison’s reputation as one of the most important Jefferson Nickel varieties of the 21st century.

Scarcity, Grades, and Market Values

Today, the 2005-D Speared Bison Nickel remains both popular and legitimately scarce. The variety qualifies as a major listing in PCGS Registry Sets that include Jefferson Nickels, which further fuels demand.

Circulated examples typically sell from $20-$50 and reflect steady collector interest. In Mint State, prices rise quickly. Coins graded MS63 often bring around $200+. At MS65, prices exceed $475, largely because so few high-grade examples exist.

Poor planchet quality plagued many 2005-D nickels. As a result, clean, well-struck coins remain extremely difficult to locate. IN MS66 condition they can range to $1500 or more.  Notably, no confirmed examples grade higher than MS66, a fact that reinforces the variety’s long-term appeal.

Why the Speared Bison Still Matters

Nearly two decades after its discovery, the 2005-D Speared Bison Nickel continues to captivate collectors. It combines an eye-catching error, a beloved design throwback, and genuine scarcity. Moreover, it demonstrates how modern coinage can still produce legendary varieties.

For collectors who enjoy dramatic mint errors with strong market support, the Speared Bison Nickel stands as a modern classic, and a reminder that even routine pocket change can make numismatic history.

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The post The Curiosity of the 2005-D Speared Bison Nickel appeared first on CoinWeek: Rare Coin, Currency, and Bullion News for Collectors.

“Clover leaf” Error By Mike Byers for Mint Error News ……

This remarkable “clover leaf” mint error features a Proof Eisenhower Dollar mated planchet set. The error formed when three planchets of different denominations entered the striking chamber at the same time. The set includes two copper-alloy cent planchets and one copper-nickel nickel planchet struck together during a single Proof strike.

How the Clover Leaf Error Occurred

Eisenhower Dollars require a large, dollar-sized planchet that fits securely inside the striking collar. In this case, three smaller planchets replaced the correct dollar planchet. Because cent and nickel planchets measure far smaller than a dollar planchet, they could not seat properly within the collar. Instead, the planchets overlapped inside the collar before the dies struck the 3 planchets.

Evidence of a Single Strike Event

When the Proof dies struck, each planchet pressed into the others. This action created clear indentations and matching contours along their edges. Each piece physically mates with the other two. These interlocking impressions confirm that all three planchets struck together in one event.

Multiple Denominations and Metal Compositions

This clover leaf error stands out because it combines different denominations and metals. Cent planchets consist primarily of copper, while nickel planchets contain a copper-nickel alloy. Errors that involve multiple compositions in one strike remain extremely rare, especially in Proof coinage.

Significance of Proof Mint Errors

Proof coins undergo higher quality control than circulation strikes. As a result, Proof mint errors appear far less often. Complex multi-planchet errors rank among the most desirable U.S. mint errors. This Eisenhower Dollar clover leaf error represents an exceptional and highly unusual example within modern Proof coinage.

The first known Proof Ike Dollar “Clover Leaf” struck on three dime planchets sold in a Heritage Auction for $105,000.

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The post Mike Byers Mint Error News – Unique Proof Ike Dollar “Clover Leaf” on Nickel and Cent Planchets appeared first on CoinWeek: Rare Coin, Currency, and Bullion News for Collectors.