Warmest Sunday greetings to all! I was looking through some rolls of pennies (I know, I know -- "cents") when I ran across the following 1973-S: I didn't think much of it... until I compared it to another 1973-S cent that I had found earlier: As you can see, the "S" mint mark in the first picture is well below the date, whereas the mint mark in the second picture sits higher and somewhat snugly between the 9 and 7. I thought that this might just be "normal" mint mark variation -- that different dies would have the mint mark in slightly different places. But then I took a look at a 1973 uncirculated and proof set, to compare the position of the mint mark: In both cases, the mint mark is close to the date and sits snugly between the 9 and 7. The "S" in the last three pictures also appears to be a little "fatter" than the mint mark in the first picture (although I realize that this could just be the result of circulation "wear and tear"). Any ideas about this? I can't imagine that anyone would actually go to the trouble to add a fake mint mark to a 1973 cent, but the first "S" just seems odd to me. Is this, indeed, simply within the bounds of normal mint mark variation? Just curious. Any input is welcome and appreciated! Have a terrific day! - Andrew
Hi Andrew the mint marks were put on the coin dies by hand and the placement could vary to a degree, as long they do not touch another design feature they are normal. Rick
Thank you!! Hi Rick! Thanks for the mint mark info. I just assumed that the various mints (by the 1970s) would have been using some sort of master die which included the mint mark. But I'm glad to hear that I'm now the proud parent of two "official" circulated 1973-S Lincoln cents! Thanks, again, for your post! - Andrew
