Came across this 1980-P Kennedy half and noticed an unusual distortion in the star cluster just to the right of the eagle’s head on the reverse. One of the stars appears elongated and melted—almost like a “spaghettified starfish.” I compared it side-by-side with another 1980-P and a 1986-P, and the difference is clear: the others show clean, crisp stars, while this one has a raised, misshapen area that seems to be part of the strike—not post-mint damage. I’m leaning toward a die chip or die deformation, possibly from a fatigued or clogged die. Just wanted to see if anyone else has come across this, or if it might be a developing die variety worth tracking. Thoughts?
Please always show a full picture of the obverse and reverse of any coin you may have questions about. We need to see the condition of the entire coin.
Agreed with Paddyman. Full photo of the obv and rev. I am guessing that the first photo is the one you are referring to?
Need better focus too. Value-wise I vote waste of time, "interesting" is up to the collector. I mean, if it was a Morgan it would get a VAM (presuming it's on the die, whatever it is).
Thanks for the feedback, everyone. I’ll post full pics and try and get some better ones, but am just working off of a phone! hope this helps!
These are much better pictures. It looks to me like a worn die, possibly with a small die crack, but it still could be a condition issue. I'm no expert, however. (Also I find it helpful if, when you post images, before you hit "Post Reply" you click on the button, "Full Image." I find it easier to view the images.)
I would call it wear, there is a little bit of corrosion or gunk next to the devices. The coin is definitely a later die stage.
It looks minted by a worn die. One of the rays looks like it took a hit. Given the age it shows, along with the gunk on the coin it’s nothing in my opinion. Welcome to CT.
