Clashed Dies???

kingmatt

First, let me apologize for asking more questions instead of making any real insightful contributions to the board. I have another question...I've heard the term "die clash" used here and elsewhere, and was wondering what exactly it meant. While digging through some old Type Set albums, I came across a 1813 Capped Bust half and gave it a close look. It is really worn, but down by the date, in fact just above the first 8 in 18 I can see what looks like a "D". Looking closer at it, I noticed that there was a pattern that continued in an arc on either side of the "D" (for example, just above the bust line, there appears to be anothre letter. I'll try to attach a scan. If anyone has any ideas, I'd be happy to hear them. Matt

coinguy1

kingmatt - die clashing will result in some of the design details of one side of the coin showing on the other side. I can't tell much from your images. But, turn the coin over and see if there are design elements (letters, images, etc.) on the reverse, that can account for what you are seeing by the date on the obverse.

And, don't apologize for asking questions.

kranky

When the two dies come together without a blank planchet in between them, it's possible for the design of one side to be slightly imprinted on the opposite die. If it's severe enough, that impression can appear on coins made after the dies clashed together. The image from the opposite die will be reversed if it appears on the coin.

[edit] Mark beat me to it! [/edit]

dorkkarl

kingmatt, it sounds as if you have indeed discovered a clashed die. extremely common occurence on bust halves from 1813 & 1814. in fact, i'd say that more from those 2 years are clashed than not.

K S

dorkkarl

incidentally, i must've seen at least a 1000 1865 3cn's in the last 25 years, & again, i believe they are more common w/ clashed dies than not.

K S

RotatedRainbows

Bust Halfs are notorious for having clashed dies, some varieties are hard to find without die clashing. Below is a bustie which has many die clashes most noticeable in the field behind Liberty's head and by the date, it is an 1814 o-108a E over A in states variety.

Conder101

It probably is a clashed die. The area you showed is where the scroll with the E Pluribus Unum motto tends to show up from clashed dies. You can clearly see the scroll in that area on the scan posted by RotatedRainbows.

kingmatt

Great answers one and all! Thanks again. Matt (learning something new every day!)