Question re: Weak Strike on Cent in Proof Set

RKKay

I have a 1977 proof set, and all the coins are as they should be except the cent, which is very weakly struck. Abe's hair and beard have little detail and the S looks like an 8. There are no steps on the monument, and the columns have no detail. The fields are deep and the devices cameoed, and the coin is red. What impact does the weakness have on the set's value considering the set is worth practically nothing already?

JD

Weak strikes in proof sets usually reduce its value unless there's an uncommon error also associated with it.

Rampage

RKKay. Do you have a scan of the cent?

JD. Weak strike is also known as a die trial strike. If that is what RKKay has, then the value is in no way reduced. The value would sky rocket if it is a die trial proof cent.

Rampage.

RKKay

I'll try to get a scan with a friend's digital camera tomorrow and would appreciate your opinion. I've never heard of a die trial strike as it would pertain to a proof set. Is there more information somewhere that I could read? I am a pattern collector, so am aware of die trials, but not die trial strikes.

coppercoins

In all likelihood the cent is normal - proof cents from that era typically exhibit weak detail because of the mint's failure to recognize that the obverse needed a facelift. It didn't actually receive that facelift until 1982. Best thing to do is check it against other 1977 proof cents and see if it's grossly different from the others. If not, it's normal.

A die trial strike would show only a hint of any detail, not just weak detail. With regard to the mention of a mint mark and the mirror fields with cameo devices, a die trial strike it's likely not.