LDB4-1955-007 Die Break

Description

Seventh documented die break at Hardy position 4 for the 1955 Proof Lincoln Wheat Cent, this variety records a fracture in the LIBERTY area of a proof die — a production environment where die quality is held to the highest standards. Proof coins are struck multiple times on specially prepared polished planchets using polished dies, producing mirror-like fields and frosted design elements. Despite these controlled conditions, dies still develop stress fractures from repeated striking, and when a crack forms in the die between the letters of LIBERTY, it fills with metal during the proof striking process. The result is a raised line on the proof coin's surface that contrasts sharply with the otherwise flawless mirror finish. The LDB4 prefix places this break at position 4 in the Hardy classification system, which organizes die breaks in the LIBERTY area by precise location. Seven documented breaks at this position for 1955 proofs is a substantial count, reflecting both the number of proof dies employed and the intensity of examination these coins receive. The 1955 proof cent carries added cachet because it shares a date with the famous 1955 doubled die obverse — one of the most celebrated error coins in American numismatics. LDB4-1955-007 is cataloged by Cuds on Coins.

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