Die break

Rim die break – Cud

The rim die break, also known as a cud, is a type of coin error that occurs only on the edge of the coin. It is essential to note that the gutter, which constitutes the edge and is the most engraved part of the die, is the weakest point of the coin. Therefore, this type of defect is common. It is crucial to distinguish between the rim die break and the marginal die break. The marginal die break occurs when the field and the incisions adjacent to the gutter of the coin are compromised. This small difference is important to know to accurately identify each type of minting break.

Interior die break

Interior die break is a type of coin error that occurs due to the detachment and escape of a die fragment from the beating chamber. This break involves only one or more fragments of the internal or central die and results in a portion of the non-minted planchet being affected. The manifestation of this error on the coin is in the form of a cud or die chip.

Collectors often seek coins that show progressions of interior die break, which can be appreciated and sought after by advanced collectors. It is important to note that the interior die break appears incuse on the coin, in relief on the die. As the fragment of the broken die emerges from the beating chamber, the break evolves into relief on the coin and incuse on the die.

When the die fragment detaches, it leaves a sort of chip on the coin that will be filled by the metal of the round at the time of minting. Below, we can observe some of the primary examples of interior die break on Italian coinage. It is important to understand this type of coin error as it can affect the coin’s value and rarity.

Marginal die break

The marginal die break is a type of error that occurs when a fragment of the die breaks off and separates from the striking chamber during the minting process, resulting in an unstruck portion on the planchet. This type of error is highly sought after by collectors of minting errors, especially those who specialize in die breaks, as it allows them to reconstruct the various stages of formation. The images below provide an excellent example of this phenomenon, with all visible fractures on the coins coinciding and indicating a progressive breakdown of the same die.

The marginal break of the lower die in the left one corresponds perfectly with that in the right one. However, the degree of breakage in the two coins differs. In the left image, an oblique crack was created between the marginal break and the fracture of the lower vertical coin on the left side, which generated an additional portion of cud. This fracture runs through Minerva’s left foot and extends obliquely to the vertical crack. In contrast, the coin on the right side has a further oblique and curved crack between the radial fracture and the marginal die break, generating a further portion of broken die that starts from the radial die crack on the right side, crosses the robe and the ground, and rejoins the marginal break of the underlying die.

These types of errors are repetitive and may affect other coins in circulation, with varying degrees of breakage. However, they are relatively rare and can command high prices, particularly when in excellent condition.