1993-Flat top numbers?

[teryble]

I'm pretty sure I see notching on 9's, especially second 9. What happened to make the tops of these #'s flat? There doesn't seem to be any damage that might have caused it.
Thanks, Teryble

[diamond]

The numbers are attenuated (thinned) due to intentional die abrasion ("die polishing"). The slightly flattish appearance may be due to machine doubling.

[wavysteps]

Hi Teryble - I have seen these strikes before that leave a narrowing of the letters and numerals and it may have ben caused by a weak strike or a struck through an obstruction. They are a fairly commion occurance on the Lincoln cent and would be considered a minor striking error.

As to the flattening of the numerals in certain areas; more than likely caused by a coin counting machine. When such a coin bears any mark that can be attributed to a coin counting machine (circular scrapes, gouges, flattening of design elements) it is typicaly refered to as "death by coin star".

BJ Neff

[atrox001]

Here is an example of flat top letters…how can this be explained? This is from a 72S Kennedy half dollar…I find this condition on 1 of about every 50 I search. It shows up on the reverse, STATES OF AMERICA, see attached photos comparing normal to flat. I thought maybe it could be an unconfirmed reverse design variety.

Thank You,
Larry Nienaber

[diamond]

I would guess that it's due to slight differences in the depth of polishing of the field after hubbing was completed. But I could be wrong.