If this is PMD, I find it odd that on the reverse, the pattern from the wheat is clearly present in that damaged area ( down into grove). Also on the reverse lettering, the letters " C E N T " are visible. Can coin talk help me out on how this could happen so clearly with damage?
Its just a deep scratch from some kind of tool that's sharp on both sides,what i think.To me it really doesn't matter how it got damaged its simple damage but I understand those that question how and why.
DEFDAM - Definitely Damaged of both sides.. Not a Mint error of any kind. Only the person who did it would know how it was created. I did not occur during the minting process.
Thanks paddyman98, I always appreciate your answers. I was sure it was damage but was a little thrown by seeing the imprint so clearly. Having fun learning from everyone.
One day you should try your own experiment.. Take an old wheat Cent and place a sharp object against it in the same area where the damage on the Cent in question is.. See what the results are. I bet it would look exactly the same! The upraised lettering just simply sunk into the incused crevice.