This may be a common thing, but with my limited experience I have not seen it before. This is a 1976 half dollar from an uncirculated set still in the U.S. Mint packaging. The damage is on the edge of both sides and runs from about 8 o'clock to 11 o'clock. I suppose it from some of the mint's machinery.
The coins in the mint sets from the 70's didn't get treated any better than the coins that were headed for circulation. I've seen some damaged coins in those sets, but not as bad as this one. Some of that damage could have occurred at the mint, or perhaps that set was improperly stored and handled. That flimsy plastic does not provide much protection.
If it was damaged after it was sealed in the cello, you would surely see an indication of the impressions on the cello. I am curious to know what machinery at the Mint could have damaged it like that. Interesting! Chris
The cellophane package is not torn. It must have been done before it was packaged or maybe, as green18 said, the sealing equipment did it. The marks on the front run at a 90 degree angle from the marks on the back.
this is DAMAGE from the heat sealer they use on the mylar. i have a nickle just like this. it IS PMD. here is mine with the explanation. http://www.lincolncentresource.net/forums/showthread.php?t=23643
From what I've heard, error collectors consider any damage PMD if it occurs after the coin has been ejected from the presses.
if you look at the grooves on the reverse, you can line them up exactly with the crimp lines on the packaging.
That is exactly what it is. Usually, this damage occured on the dimes as this is the first time I've seen it on a half.
