I have a 1909 I. Head cent that is 1/2 as thick as a regular brass I.H. In addition to being super thin it smaller in dia. than other I.h. cents.It appears to be made of brass just like my other 1909's What would this error be called, how does it happen and any idea of worth?....Also have a 1866 3 cent piece that is very cupped, any idea of added value??
On the indian cent, if the diameter is just slightly less ( approximately the amount of difference in thickness between it and a regular indian cent) then it is an acid treated cent. The acid dissolves at fairly constant rate on all side, but generally just produces a softening of the features, so the coin can still be readily identified, just thinner and less diameter.Look at the surfaces, there is usually some minor pitting also. Since the obverse is cupped, but yet quite worn, the cupping effect is damage produced rather late in the history of the coin's circulation. If it was done right after striking, the inner area would not have worn like it appears. Just my thoughts,others may differ. Jim
