So, I just keep on trying to learn more... With the bust halves, I've got a question. Often times when looking at them in circulated grades, the upper right part (toward the center of the coin) of the "50 C" as well as the "PLUR" in PLURIBUS seem to be weak or worn down. So the question...are these high points on the coins that get worn down first or are these weaker strikes in this area or are the coins designed as such that the relief in those spots is not as thick and gets worn faster? This is noticeable in other spots as well, but these two seem to stand out to me in particular. Thanks for any replies.
I have seen ms bust halves that look worn down it is due to a weak strike.Alot of bust halves were struck with worn out dies.Also some early date bust halves are struck weak in the clasp area.If you want to learn more there are some good books out there I would rate the Al Overton's books as some of the best they show most of the known die varieties for the bust half series.I have collected Bust halves for about 20 years and it is alot of fun. Hope this helps. Tom
So, you think a lot of it may have to do with worn out dies and not necessarily that there wasn't enough pressure applied when striking...interesting. Tom, how many different varieties do you have? Just interested. I am brand new to this game. You know, I got back into coin collecting thinking that I would collect only gold. Since I started collecting again, I just keep finding new things that I'm interested in! Bust Halves is the latest.
Too much die work and not enough planchet. Those areas happen to be the thickest portions of the coin. Bone
I have some posted in the gallery if you would like to see some. I have about 40 bust halves and only 4 or 5 are the same die variety.Also the pressure aplied on the die can also be a factor on bust halves as far as weak strikes go. Tom
The PLUR is frequently missing, even on MS coins, due to strike weakness. As mentioned that is one of the thicker areas of the coin being opposite Liberty's bust. These coins were struck using screw presses and striking pressures varied consideraly compared to the later steam presses.