CU-1c-1872-01R Cud

Description

Semi-key date status makes the 1872 Indian Head Cent one of the more challenging issues to locate in any condition, and finding one with a reverse cud adds a significant layer of scarcity. CU-1c-1872-01R is the first documented reverse die failure for this date, the "R" suffix confirming the break occurred on the reverse die. With a mintage of only approximately 4.0 million pieces — among the lowest in the regular-issue series — fewer die pairs were needed for production, which means fewer dies reached the fatigue threshold where rim fractures occur. The 1872 was struck in bronze composition (95% copper, 5% tin and zinc) at the Philadelphia Mint. A reverse cud forms when a section of the reverse die rim fractures under repeated striking impact, separates from the die body, and leaves a void that fills with metal during subsequent impressions. The raised featureless mass that results is positioned uniquely on the coin's reverse. Die varieties on low-mintage dates like 1872 are inherently scarcer because the smaller die pool produced fewer opportunities for the mechanical failures that create cuds. CU-1c-1872-01R is cataloged in the Cuds on Coins reference system.

External References