Die deterioration

Die deterioration is a type of coin error that occurs when a die reaches the end of its useful life, causing the molecular structure of the metal alloy it is made of to alter. As a result of striking several thousand coins, the die begins to deform and lose its original molecular properties.

One manifestation of die deterioration is orange peel deterioration, which causes a porous surface on the coins directly proportional to the degree of deterioration exhibited by the worn die. In other cases, the die may expand, rendering incisions located near the edge vulnerable. The dilated die will present reliefs in an incorrect position, always towards the outside, and this phenomenon can be linked to other types of coin deterioration.

Furthermore, die deterioration may also present as a raised ridge ring visible near the edge of the die. This simultaneous deformation of both dies only involves the area adjacent to the edge and always occurs on both sides of the coin.

Die deterioration can also develop in the form of very fine radial rays in relief that can expand from the edge towards the center of the coin. The wear of the die always affects the design elements, sometimes deforming or canceling them entirely. To summarize, die deterioration is a significant factor contributing to the creation of unique coin errors and should be considered by collectors when evaluating the condition and value of a coin.