RRDC-5c-1980-01R Bisecting Rim to Rim Die Crack

Description

Spanning the full diameter of the reverse die, RRDC-5c-1980-01R preserves a bisecting rim-to-rim die crack on the 1980 Jefferson Nickel — a failure mode considerably more dramatic than the partial cracks commonly found on circulating coinage. A bisecting crack runs uninterrupted from one edge of the die to the opposite edge, effectively splitting the working surface into two halves. While the die remained functional long enough to strike coins showing this crack as a raised line traversing the entire reverse, continued use would inevitably have led to complete separation. The 1980 issue holds historical significance as the first year Philadelphia-minted nickels carried the P mintmark, ending a longstanding tradition of unmarked Philadelphia coinage on this denomination. Struck in 75% copper and 25% nickel, the Monticello reverse designed by Felix Schlag provided the canvas for this spectacular fracture. Cataloged by Cuds on Coins as the first documented reverse bisecting die crack for the date, this variety rewards inspection with a raised line tracing an unbroken path across the full reverse face.

Attribution History

• Discovered by Steve Young
• Expert attribution by Cuds on Coins

External References