Definitive Reference For Indian Cent Die Varieties

DEFINITIVE REFERENCE FOR INDIAN CENT DIE VARIETIES

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1880 Variety 10


Obverse 12	Reverse M

Obverse Diagnostics

Date Position

Repunched Second 8 (Click Image To Enlarge)

Die Abrasion (Click Image To Enlarge)

Reverse Diagnostics

Die Abrasion (Click Image To Enlarge)

Reverse M Die Crack Mapping

Obverse 12 is identified by date placement at C and date repunching that features initial date impressions within the lower loop and to the north within the upper loop of the second 8. Obverse 12 exhibits noticeable die abrasion that has resulted in outlines around all letters of the legend and portrait, as well as rough areas around the letters of the legend.

Reverse M is rotated 6 degrees clockwise and exhibits die abrasion of the field areas, with design elements and lettering not exhibiting outlines. Reverse M has developed the following die cracks:
1. Die crack from the rim at 8:30 extends upward through the outer edge of the left wreath to the top of the wreath. A lighter die crack splits from die crack #1 at the outer edge of the oak leaf at 9:00 and extends downward through the olive leaves.
2. Die crack from the rim at 11:30 extends through the shield and continues downward along the outer edge of the right wreath.

Comments: The extra outlines of Obverse 12 are the result of metal loss from the fields of the Obverse 12 Working Die during the abrasion of this die by the Mint. The loss of metal on the field areas of the working die will result in the field areas of the struck coin to be higher compared to a normal, unabraded die. It should be noted that the Obverse 12 date area exhibits no outlines, which would most likely indicate the Mint performed the abrasion of Obverse 12 prior to the date being impressed into the working die.

Plate coin: Courtesy of David Killough Collection, XF40