Hey guys ! I've researched and researched trying to get some info on the "scratchy" appearance of a few coins I've come across. I would love to know what causes this. The first one I ignored thinking someone did it but then I found another. It doesn't appear to be done by a person because its smooth and looks like its under the finish. Any knowledge would be appreciated.
As you know, the raised portion of the coin ( like the head and top of lettering, etc) is made with the deepest portions of the die. Conversely, the lowest part of the coin ( fields) is produced by the highest part ( surface) of the die. If a die hits a loose staple or other piece of debris, and the die is damaged, the operators smooth it over again with abrasives. If deep, they use rough abrasives) laps also and some of the scratches remain, aand when stamped into the coin produce raised scratch mark called die polished lines. If the scratches go into the coin, it is from surface of coin damage and not die damage. Jim
we can now close this thread i am here As you know, the raised portion of the coin ( like the head and top of lettering, etc) is made with the deepest portions of the die. Conversely, the lowest part of the coin ( fields) is produced by the highest part ( surface) of the die. If a die hits a loose staple or other piece of debris, and the die is damaged, the operators smooth it over again with abrasives. If deep, they use rough abrasives) laps also and some of the scratches remain, aand when stamped into the coin produce raised scratch mark called die polished lines. If the scratches go into the coin, it is from surface of coin damage and not die damage. what jim said is correct and i would know i am a professional coin collector