1988-D die deterioration or something else?

Its almost as if the die was melted.

 

Log in or Sign up to hide this ad.

It's the copper plating that was affected.
And definitely a worn die strike.

Many Copper plated zinc cents look bad. That's why here on CoinTalk we call them Crappy Zincolns

 

Here is some great information
http://www.error-ref.com/blisteredplating/

- Mr.Ed (Specializing in collecting errors since 1985)

 

Check these if you don't mind these are both 88D many things alike but some pretty noticeable.

 

Not sure if those pics help any.

 

Yes. The same issue..
Remember Crappy Zincolns

 

Ugh! Hate zinc litteraly a poor idea.

 

All sorts of things happen to Crappy Zincolns! ~ Chris

 

I have noticed added to more i have to read up on.

 

It is a plot to remove the cent from circulation and all will corrode in a few years!!

Nah....

 

...the problem is two-fold: they will keep them in circulation after they corrode, and they exacerbate the situation by making more of them every year...Spark