1991 D Lincoln Cent with ring around the rim

[DDMike7657]

I have attached some photos of a 1991 D Lincoln cent where the edge rim on the obverse and reverse do not clearly converge into clean circles. Instead, they spiral inward with a strange wobble. At first glance, I thought I was looking at some kind of MAD error or weird clash marks.

I have done some research and have found no answer for this error. I've seen some similar strange looking wobbly rims on Lincoln cents, but never anything like this.

For the reverse, I can attach more detailed images that show the rim edge spiraling inward in a similar fashion. Additionally, the bottom step of the memorial looks like it starts at the top of a rolling hill instead of the base of a building.

Does anyone have any idea what happened to this coin?

Thanks,

Mike

[numismanut]

I don't really see anything out of the ordinary on this coin, but I might be missing something. In the 2nd image with liberty, it looks like there is some coin counter damage. I don't quite see what is being mentioned about the steps (above the "O" in "ONE"?), but I do notice a bit of finning around the rim of the coin. I'm guessing that is what you are referring to, and although I don't know a lot about it, I'm sure your research skills can tell you whether this might be what the edge spiral is.

[rascal]

this coin looks like it has been mounted in something like say maybe a lucky charm piece. when coins are mounted in a metal holder this does damage to the coins rim. this is my best guess.

[DDMike7657]

Thank you for your input.

I posted this question on another site and was asked to not look at the rings but the direction and position of the die relative to a nice centered strike. A misaligned die and finning seem to explain what is happening here.

Mike