2010 Atypical Die Clash ADC-1C-2010-01

Description

First documented atypical die clash for the 2010 Lincoln Shield Cent, this variety preserves two-sided clash marks where both dies transferred design elements to each other during a planchet-free strike. On the obverse, parts of the striped shielding and the shield's edge appear in front of and behind Lincoln's portrait, reminiscent of Memorial reverse clash marks but notably larger due to the Shield design's bolder elements. Letters UN from UNUM appear in front of and behind the bow tie. On the reverse, within the shield design, impressions of Lincoln's lips and part of his hair are visible — transferred obverse portrait detail embedded among the shield's elements. Coin courtesy of Jason Gordon. Cataloged in the MadDieClashes reference system. Struck in copper-plated zinc, the 2010 cent inaugurated Lyndall Bass's Union Shield reverse, replacing the Memorial design in continuous use since 1959. As the first atypical die clash on the new Shield design, this variety established the baseline for understanding how the Shield's geometry interacts with the obverse during clash events.

External References