I'm less than a novice at this sort of thing, but I got this penny from a store a few days ago and the moment I saw it I thought that it might be one of those rare finds that I hear about periodically. Since I know very little about the terminology in coin collecting, I have no way to really describe it in those terms. So I made it easy by including two photos to help with understanding what I actually have. So the question is: is this a mint error, or my error (a/k/a ignorance)?? Thanks to anyone who can help!
Sorry, it is not an error. It is a squeeze-job where someone pressed two other coins into your coin. Notice how the lettering and date are incuse (not raised) and reversed. The raised lettering and date of the other coins produced a negative image on your coin. Bottom line, your coin is damaged and worth no premium.
I didnt even think about mirrored lettering being a way to tell if error or pressed damage. Good lookin out for the info in case i come across one as well.
