This 73 stuck out in a pile. I am assuming (and asking) that this is not something that leaves the mint like this. Is this from damage or age? Ive never noticed a rim that is split. I dont get it. Im wondering how it happens if it is a mint thing. Its only on one side and kind of gradually creates a gap and then comes back together again sort of smoothly. It starts up by the T in Trust and then goes away next to the date.
That's normal. I can't for the life of me tell you what it is called, perhaps @paddyman98 can...But it is not damage or from circulation.
Only thing my novice self could tell is that the die was worn to hell judging by the "phantom" date. But from what I understand, a worn die shouldnt have an effect on the rim like that right? "finned rim"? Ive never heard of that. I will look it up.
found this description on Error-Ref .com. Im trying to visualize it in the mint process and its hard for me. I just noticed this too and should have taken a pic of it...the outer "rim" is ever so slightly higher then the inner. Definition: A fin is a thin flange that extends vertically from the rim/edge junction of a coin struck within the collar. It is caused by excessive striking pressure or a localized increase in striking pressure caused by slight die tilt. The extra pressure causes coin metal to squeeze into the narrow gap between die neck and collar. Fins can develop on either face or both faces simultaneously. A fin may encircle a coin or may be restricted to one pole. The latter is the kind typically produced by die tilt.
Your coin is commonly called a MAD for Misaligned Die Strike. Read here as it tells that the hammer die can move during a strike. That can cause the shadow date as a form of machine doubling. http://www.error-ref.com/horizontal-misalignment-of-the-hammer-die/
