Coin-related Term: Variety

A variety can occur in a number of ways, the most common being caused by a working die which becomes cracked or worn and requires touching up to restore it. In the recutting process a little of the design, date, or lettering may be altered slightly or eliminated altogether.

A variety can occur in a number of ways, the most common being caused by a working die which becomes cracked or worn and requires touching up to restore it. In the recutting process a little of the design, date, or lettering may be altered slightly or eliminated altogether.

Another very common form of variety occurs when part of the die has become clogged or filled with flakes of metal from previously-struck coins. This prevents a complete impression of the die being placed on the coin. These coins are usually rejected if seen in time, although some do pass the rigid examination of the mint staff and so enter circulation.