I came across this in a 2x2 at my LCS last week. I can't be real sure what this is myself. I am thinking the planchet was bad before the coin was struck. I don't think they are laminations in the normal sense and I don't think there is a problem with the obverse die. I welcome ideas from the group.
The coin looks plated, and I think it's got plating issues. I've never seen any 1943 Cent with those'die cracks' or surface issues like that.
Even one in great condition that is not damaged can be worth about half of what you paid. If it has been reprocessed it's worthless. It's only a lesson for $1.50. Most of us have paid A LOT more to learn a lesson about a particular coin, I know I have.
Disagree. There are other areas but the ones I circled show these are not original surfaces. Please show a photo of the edge.
I've heard of counterfeit copper 1943's being made in places like China. Any chance this is one of them? They also did the double die 1955's too.
Well, those steel cents were Zinc plated as I recall, so could the issues with the obverse be something to do with the plating process?
It could be a counterfeit, but it doesn't look like it from the striking characteristics. If it's not re-processed (which I think it is), it's been cleaned or otherwise altered on the surfaces.
Interesting. I can see why you purchased it. Lamination or plating issue aside, it is a fun coin to add to one's collection, IMHO.
I did not intend anyone to think this was Copper!! it is Steel and magnetic. Michael K wanted an edge view.
Michael K, those are the things that I am asking about. They seem to have been on the planchet before the strike. Even the button hole is struck into one.
