O.K. I understand that these are coins struck outside the retaining collar (and some are partially struck outside), and that all features on both sides need to be present, as opposed to off-centers that have details running off the edge. But... If they are struck "outside the collar," where the heck did the collar go? Are the planchets sitting on top of the collar? Below it? I am guessing on top or below the rounded space of the collar where they should be? Thanks for anyone who can help. ~Joe C.
The Planchet sit inside the collar. Hammer die comes down and strikes the planchet, Die lifts, Collar retracts (down), coin is blown off lower die with Air, Collar comes up, feeder fingers load another planchet into collar and retracts out of the way, hammer die comes down and strikes the planchet that is resting inside the collar. Repeat three time per second. Please feel free to add or detract from this. It may take a couple of us to get it right.
I is my understanding that when the collar fails to lift back up into position, and a planchet for some reason get caught perfect center between dies the results will be a Broad-struck Coin. I am sure there is more that one scenario that will results in a Broad-strike. For every (X) amount made only (Y) amount will leave the mint. A lot of Off-Center struck coins will show a collar mark on the fixed/stationary side of the coin.
