How to Spot Rare Errors on Spring PNNA Show report

The Hidden World of Error Coins at PNNA

Most people look right past the tiny details that can turn a common item into a rarity worth thousands. At the recent Spring PNNA show in Portland, I witnessed firsthand how error coins continue to captivate serious collectors and how these seemingly minor variations can command premium prices.

Die Cracks: The Most Common Error

During my conversations at the show, particularly with Brian (@Meltdown) who recently acquired a remarkable specimen, die cracks were a hot topic. These raised lines on the coin’s surface occur when the die itself develops fractures during the striking process. The coin Brian showed me had particularly pronounced die cracks that created a fascinating pattern across the fields.

When examining coins for die cracks, look for:

• Raised lines that appear raised above the surrounding surface
• Cracks that often radiate from the rim toward the center
• Progressive patterns that may become more pronounced on later strikes
• Intersecting cracks that create distinctive patterns

Double Dies: The Collector’s Holy Grail

While not specifically mentioned in the show report, double die errors were certainly on many collectors’ minds. These occur when the die itself is struck twice by the hub, creating a doubled image. The young numismatist I met at the show (who was impressively knowledgeable at just 12 years old) was particularly adept at spotting these subtle variations.

Key indicators of double dies include:

• Distinct doubling in the inscriptions or date
• Most visible on the date, mint mark, and lettering
• Often strongest on one side of the design elements
• May appear as a shadow or ghost image

Mint Mark Variations: Small Details, Big Impact

The show featured several interesting mint mark discussions. One dealer mentioned a Washington $20 national note from Bellingham, WA that was “fairly difficult” to find. Mint mark variations can significantly impact a coin’s value, especially when they represent transitional periods or errors.

When examining mint marks, pay attention to:

• Size differences between mint marks
• Position variations (high, low, left, right)
• Style differences (especially pre-1990s when mint marks were hand-punched)
• Repunched mint marks where the mark was stamped multiple times

Specific Errors to Look For

The show’s inventory revealed several error types that serious collectors should watch for:

Off-Center Strikes

These occur when the planchet isn’t properly centered during striking. The young collector I met showed particular interest in these, understanding that the degree of off-centering directly correlates with value.

Wrong Planchet Errors

Coins struck on incorrect planchets (the wrong metal composition) are extremely valuable. While none were specifically mentioned at this show, they remain a key error type to watch for.

Clashed Dies

These create ghost images on coins when dies strike each other without a planchet between them. The resulting coins show elements of the opposite die’s design.

Authentication and Grading Considerations

Several dealers at the show discussed authentication challenges. One dealer mentioned submitting a 1893 Indian Head Cent that was initially rejected by PCGS but later accepted after resubmission. This highlights the importance of:

• Professional authentication for potentially valuable errors
• Understanding that grading opinions can vary
• Documentation of provenance for significant errors
• Second opinions when dealing with borderline cases

Market Trends and Values

The show’s success, with one dealer reporting it as a “top 5 all time” event, demonstrates strong collector interest in error coins. Premiums for authenticated errors continue to rise, particularly for:

• Major mint errors with clear attribution
• Scarce date and mint combinations with errors
• High-grade examples of common error types
• Errors on key date coins

Conclusion: The Future of Error Collecting

The Spring PNNA show revealed a vibrant community of error coin collectors, from seasoned dealers to young enthusiasts. The 12-year-old collector I met exemplified the next generation’s sharp eye for detail and understanding of value. As error coins continue to gain recognition, developing the skills to identify these variations becomes increasingly valuable for any serious collector.

Whether you’re examining coins at a show or searching through rolls at home, remember that the difference between a common coin and a rare error often lies in the smallest details. Take your time, use proper lighting, and don’t hesitate to seek expert opinions when you suspect you’ve found something special.

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