1864 Indian Head Cent (Bronze No L) Die Clash (Obverse and Reverse, Forehead Under C)

Description

Both sides of this 1864 Indian Head cent Bronze No L variety show die clash evidence. A die clash occurs when obverse and reverse dies strike each other without a planchet between them, transferring incuse impressions of each die's design onto the opposing face. On the obverse, reverse lettering appears clashed in front of the Indian's face from the wreath and legend. On the reverse, the Indian's forehead profile is visible beneath the C in CENT. The 1864 Bronze No L variety marks one of the earliest bronze Indian Head cents after the mid-1864 composition change from copper-nickel. The No L designation indicates the absence of designer James Longacre's initial on the ribbon. Die clashes are more commonly preserved on bronze planchets than on harder copper-nickel, as the softer bronze retains transferred details more readily. Identifying the forehead beneath the C requires careful examination under magnification and angled lighting.