Years ago I would go through Jefferson nickel bags to find errors. Here's a set I still have as many I have sold, or traded off over the years. I'll most probably hang on to these as you can no longer find such coins in mint bags. You will notice even through the coin is off struck the details of the coin is quite nice some even with full steps. I would grade these at a conservative grade of MS-65 mint errors. First up is an 1977 5 steps Jefferson Center broad strike. Next is another 1977 5 step nickel broad strike with a slight reverse collar. " Struck half way out of the collar.'' Next a 1977 5 step Jefferson struck off center at 10 K at 5 % off center. Next is an 8% off center at 11K I would love to say it's 5 steps however one does have a chunk out of it.
Next we have an 40 % off center strike at 12 K again 5 step nickel. Lastly a 60 % off center strike sadly the steps don't quite make it. just a tad short..
One of the reasons I like getting bags from the Mint is because of the likelihood that you will find multiple errors of the same or similar type. If I had to guess about your coins, I would think that some mechanic at the Mint was lax in his duties of cleaning and/or lubricating the equipment. Chris
Here's one of my favorite finds an 1999 D of course nothing but the 99 D shows ,I was like what is the odds?
You can still find older Mint bags to this day. In 2005, I bought a $50 Mint bag of 1980 Philly 1c. In it were 228 die clashes that were from the same die. The only caveat I would suggest is that you not buy bags sight unseen. You want to be sure to inspect the stitches very thoroughly with a loupe to ensure that the bag has not been opened, searched and sewn closed. Chris
