I highly doubt it. Error-detection technology is so advanced that next to no mint errors escape the mint these days... And those that do were either intentionally smuggled out or are so minor (microscopic cuds, die cracks, etc) that they wouldn't command a premium on the open market. -Brian
Brian, I can't speak for the OP but a lot of collectors use the terms 'errors' and 'varieties' interchangeably so he may be asking if anyone has found any significant varieties (e.g., doubled dies) rather than errors.
Hmm, I really didn't think of that, Hobo... But it'd make sense. Just being that this was posted in the "Error Coins" section of the forums, I figured he was refering to "mint errors". I guess we'll find out by morning. -Brian
I think the only smuggler is in the federal pen serving his time. Of course there will be another just give it a few years. http://www.newjerseynewsroom.com/economy/error-coins-stolen-by-ex-mint-employee-from-new-jersey
Ive often wondered if those that work there could buy a coin that had a defect or are all of those destoryed.
Absolutely NOT! The Mint is very serious about not allowing coins to leave the Mint except through proper channels. And they certainly do not want their mistakes getting out if they can help it. Everyone who enters the Mint (excluding those who take the public tours and do not get down on the floor with the equipment) must submit to a background check and go through a security checkpoint similar to those at airports. Everyone who leaves the Mint must go through an even more thorough security checkpoint. This includes tourists and employees alike. You do NOT want to be caught trying to leave the Mint with a coin, a piece of scrap (e.g., a bowtie) or anything else that may have come from inside the Mint. If you happened to get into the Mint with a coin you must surrender it before leaving. No exceptions. I have toured the floor of the Denver Mint five times and I can tell you that getting out of the Mint is a LOT harder than getting into the Mint (and getting in is pretty difficult).
Yes, I mean both, any and all. Sorry, I have been collecting for almost 50 years but only this year took any interest in errors and such. I know you believe you understand what you think I said but I'm not sure if you realize that what you heard is not what I meant.
