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1868
Variety 104a
Obverse 4.2: High Weak Date, Downward Slope, Full (S)TATES, Random Die Lines
Reverse D.2: Perfect Die
Obverse 4.2 Reverse 4.2
Obverse Diagnostic Point(s)
Comments: Business strikes from the proof dies are available and will be found with proof like surfaces as noted with the Eugene Gardner plate coin. These business strikes appear to have a weaker date punch than seen on proof strikes. It is possible that the dies may have been polished before being reused for additional business strikes but more research is required to confirm this theory.
Random die lines, as seen on proof examples, are found throughout Liberty's upper body, on the lower gown area and across the upper shield for Variety 104a business strikes. These random die lines are a systematic issue for 1868 obverse dies.
Plate Coin: Courtesy Eugene H. Gardner Collection, NGC MS65 Star