LDB4-1956-009B Die Break

Description

Sharing the same LDB4-1956-009B variety number as its business strike counterpart, this proof 1956 Lincoln Wheat Cent die break documents the identical three-stage progression on a proof die. The 4FL+ classification and three Cohen cross-references apply to both listings: Stage 1 (Cohen 56-B512) precedes the die chip in the R; Stage 2 (Cohen 56-B515) exhibits the R die chip; Stage 3 (Cohen 56-B518) shows advanced deterioration with chips on the 9 and T plus skull cracks. Also referenced as Hardy 56P-4FL+2, the proof version is significant because proof coins are struck on specially prepared planchets with polished dies, meaning die breaks appear with exceptional clarity against mirror-like fields. The 1956 proof cent was struck at Philadelphia, and proof die breaks from this era are scarcer than circulation counterparts because proof production runs were far smaller. Locating this die break progression on proof specimens allows collectors to study die deterioration on surfaces that preserve fine detail with superior fidelity compared to business strikes. Cohen 56-B515 Stage 3 Cohen 56-B518 Die Chip on 9 in Date, Large chip on T, & two Die Cracks on skull.

Attribution History

• Discovered by Earl M
• Cross references: Cohen 56-B515, Hardy 56P-4FL+2.
• Expert attribution by Cuds on Coins

External References