Die varieties are differences between coins of the same date and mint caused by variations in the dies used to produce them.
Types of Varieties
Hub Doubled Dies: Doubling from multiple impressions during die creation Repunched Mint Marks: Multiple impressions of mint mark Overdates: One date punched over another Die Cracks/Cuds: Breaks in the die surface Die Clashes: Ghost images from dies striking each other
Famous Varieties
- 1955 Doubled Die Lincoln Cent
- 1972 Doubled Die Lincoln Cent
- 1942/1 Mercury Dime
- 1918/7-D Buffalo Nickel
- 1937-D 3-Legged Buffalo Nickel
Attribution Services
Several resources help identify varieties: - VAM (Van Allen-Mallis) for Morgan/Peace Dollars - CONECA (Combined Organizations of Numismatic Error Collectors) - Cherry Picker's Guide - Variety Vista
Collecting Varieties
Variety collecting allows you to: - Find valuable coins in circulation or bulk lots - Specialize within a series - Discover rare pieces overlooked by others
Many varieties are not listed on holders but command significant premiums.