Just got this PCGS graded pf69 coin and there's something strange going on. the slab itself has some scratches but the lines on the cheek, chin and hair seem to be on the coin itself. Any idea what it is? Some kind of die damage? Did the grader scratch it and What are your opinions on this one?
Looks to be a die clash that was unattributed on the holder. It wouldn't be die damage since the marks are raised.
Most of the time maybe, but not "only." Here's an 1892 dime with the O in One Dime clashed below the ear. I can also show my 1946 Canada dollar with George VI's ear clashed on the reverse island. I don't know whats going on with OP coin but it looks like PMD to me.
Thanks for the education @KBBPLL, still learning. That is a cool clash, and I never look for them other than in the fields.
If it is how common is it for PCGS to let something like this slip? Looking though the slab I cant really tell if the lines are inset or raised. They seem to go in the same direction and disappear at lower spots on the coin. If it wasn't for the fact that its in a PF69 holder I'd assume scratches.
Shallow areas of a design will show clashing since the depth on the die is similar to the field surface. For instance, Roosevelt dimes will show clashing in the area in front of the eye because the depth is similar to the field.
Hard to say how common, but keep in mind it's a grading factory. They don't spend a ton of time obsessing over a single coin. Your first and second images don't show much of anything, so maybe it's a light rub that only catches the light at a certain angle?
It depends on how serious is the clash (the impression it left), the design of the coin on both sides and the relief on the sides of the clash. This is one of mine on a $1.00 Gold Dollar dated 1855. The clash is almost 100% and it covers high and low spots. I just took lousy photos in my excitement.
I can't really tell from the OP's pictures if the coin is damaged or if it is from the mint that way, but it seems possible to me that either (1) a damaged coin has been moved to a better holder or (2) that the graded coin was damaged while being handled and inserted into the holder by PCGS.
The “fangs” on the 1955 “Bugs Bunny” Franklin Half Dollar are due to clashing. They are from the wing detail on the eagle.
Thanks for that explanation John. To this day I can't explain the difference between a die clash, door dash, or lost cash......
