Why does this 1961 penny look like this. What’s wrong with the L in Liberty

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looks like it took a hit.

 

A few probably

 

The funny looking L is due to a Worn Die Strike and a bit of circulation wear

 

What is a worm die strike?

 

Worn... A Die that is getting near the end of it's usage. They don't just use 1 Die to strike all coins each year. They have to be replaced after a few thousand strikes. So elements, such as the L in LIBERTY look the way they do.
Not really a Mint Error but a Die issue.

 

Thank you. It is one to hold onto though. For me anyway.

 

You can hold onto whatever you want. Put it in a 2x2 coin holder and label it
"L with worn Die Strike Issue". Then use it for reference but only if you are serious about a lasting coin collecting commitment.

 

I Am I have no desire to get ride of any of my finds. I have it separated and in a small baggie at the moment I need to get some coin holders.

 

People collect all different types of coins desirability is in the eyes of the beholder so collect what ever you like.
Welcome to Cointalk
Dave

 

Oh and the surface looks the way it does because wear. I believe it to be Environmental Damage. The surface was affected to exposure to something harsh.

 

I have saved out a few coins that really have no added value just because they are different than the norm. The key is to know that they aren't a gold mine. That being said, keep what you like, label it, and use it as reference. As an example, here's a 2002 Dime I put in a 2X2. I found it CRHing and is simply an example of struck through grease, but it's the first one I've found and identified so I'm keeping it.

 

Thank you

 

that penny on the left side of lincoln looks like a pen mark - could just be light too I guess.

When I was young I used to outline lincoln and the other coin's presidents with a ball point pen.

 

I thought the same thing when I first looked at the picture. I didn’t notice it before I took it.

 

When the worm strike, the fish die

 

The 2 on the dime is faint. But struck through grease usually has complete letters or numbers entirely missing. Not sure this is a struck through.

 

What did you use to take the photos, particularly the obverse whole-coin shot?

 

I have a magnifying lens attachment for my phone. I need to get something a little better

 

Oh I thought the photo was good. Nice and clear and large. Good for observation.