LDB4-1957-012A BIE Die Break

Description

Distinguished by the "A" suffix that identifies it as a sub-variety within the broader LDB4-1957-012 classification, this BIE die break at Hardy position 4 on the 1957 Philadelphia Wheat Cent represents a die state variation or closely related break that warranted separate catalog treatment. Cross-referenced as Cohen Pending with Hardy code 57P-4EL+ and cataloged on August 5, 2016, the "A" suffix indicates this break shares enough positional similarity with LDB4-1957-012 that it was not assigned an entirely new sequence number, yet differs enough in specific characteristics — likely break width, extent, or associated die markers — to require independent documentation. This sub-variety designation system reflects the granularity demanded by serious BIE die break research, where subtle differences between breaks on the same or closely related dies must be tracked individually. The Hardy code 57P-4EL+ places this break within the EL sublocation of position 4, consistent with the parent variety's classification. BIE die breaks at closely adjacent positions can sometimes reflect progressive stages of the same underlying die crack system, where an initial crack extends or branches during continued production, creating what appears to be distinct varieties that are actually sequential snapshots of a single evolving failure. Cuds on Coins maintains this catalog entry as part of their comprehensive documentation of Lincoln Wheat Cent die deterioration. The sub-variety notation system provides researchers with the taxonomic precision needed to analyze die break evolution and failure propagation patterns across the production life of individual dies.

Attribution History

• Discovered by Juan Aguerre
• Cross references: Cohen Pending, Hardy 57P-4EL+. 08/05/2016.
• Expert attribution by Cuds on Coins

External References