The features noted below (arrows) were found on an 1869 Uruguay 4c. BJ Neff has seen this photo and tentatively identified it as trails--but a confirmation in-hand will soon follow. I'll follow-up with his findings here. If you have this particular coin, take a close look at yours!
Kurt, Not to mention that it is a Doubled Die as well! Got a pic of both the Obverse and Reverse? Frank
Frank, Here are a few more details. I particularly like the spread in the date, which appears to be part of the hub--and not punched after hubbing. I really like the design and color this coin has taken--photos are fairly true. No pic of the reverse yet--it's less interesting.
Kurt, That is a nice old coin and a nice Doubled Die Obverse! I have no idea as to the value of the coin with or without the Varieties but it might be beneficial to have the coin Certified, Graded and the Varieties attributed (noted) on the slab. Frank
acanthite, I am not very well versed in the die trail phenomena seen on some coins...especially on some of the State Quarters (the Minnesota State Quarter is well known for Die Trails), so Mike Diamond would really be the person to ask! From what I have read, it is the result or theorized to be the result of minor fissures developing (tiny cracks) in the Dies over time, at sharp points of the Lettering and/or details due to the Die becoming weaker in these areas. Frank
To understand the cause of Trail dies look at BJ Neffs site traildies.com They are explained in depth and many are worth a lot. Bill
Yep, I think BJ Neff is the guy to quote here. I can't really say I understand it well enough to explain, since I mostly focus on 19C. rpds and overdates. However it happened, it's pretty interesting! I'll post more when I hear back from BJ Neff.
You have one to be proud of, not only the oldest but the trails seem to be strong also. Great find. Bill
