Yeah, i think it's some sort of restriction within the press. You see it all the time on double and triple struck quarters from 1999 to 2009. It's not something that the tpgs view as damage, either. They're gradable.
I had to do a double take to make sure it wasn't a vise-job. The devices are clearly raised. It is an interesting piece.
http://www.fredweinberg.com/inventory/categorylist.php?ID=4&cert=Raw Here ask Fred he'll make you an offer
I really think that if you did work at the mint, you ain't smuggling out this or any other coin or anything metal at all. You might be able to create some errors easily enough, but not pilfer them. No more funny stuff like from the 19th century. I bet you walk through metal detectors to get in and out.
If he did work at the mint, do you think they keep errant strikes such as these for that long period of time. We are talking about a 13 year old coin here, these would be snatched up and waffled in no time.
agree 100% on getting it slabbed. Very hard item to value. I'd give it to Heritage to auction unless I need the money fast. An error dealer like Fred surely would bid on it in auction....you'd get a wider audience with the auction.