1903 IHC Die Chip

[DB426]

For reference, this is a die chip on the eighth feather, pointing to the ‘R’ in ‘AMERICA’ that I’ve found on several 1903 Indian Head Cents. I bought this uncirculated coin back in the ‘80s and had it slabbed a few years ago.

The chip is in the same location and very similar to the die chip that Richard Snow documented on 1899 Indian Head Cents. I sent a few circulated examples to Bill Fivaz for his reference. He agreed that it looks like a die chip.

If you’re interested in this type of anomaly, keep an eye on the 1903 IHC. I’ve found a handful of them at coin shows and stores.

[MintErrors]

In my opinion die chips on any denomination are pretty common in later stage working dies.

The Indian cent series has a pretty good die crack on one of the obverse dies for the 1883. In turn, if that coin is flipped over, it very well may have a doubled die reverse.

[DB426]

Agreed completely, they’re not uncommon. Some people collect oddities like that, though personally I wouldn’t pay a premium for one. That’s just me.

I’ve found this chip on several 1899 and 1903 IHC. Interesting that they’re in basically the same spot and are generally the same shape. Weak die design? Something askew with hubbing? I highly doubt the mint would reuse a four year old chipped die.

IIRC, all 1883 DDRs have that crack on the obverse. It’s a telltale if you’re not certain a coin is genuine.

Thanks for your thoughts!