A true double-die would have numerous examples. Each blank planchet that the die struck would show the same doubling, resulting in thousands of examples. After a while, the collectors identify it as a true double die. So, odds are if you have an older coin that isn't already recognized as a DD, it isn't. If you have a 2008 or 2009 coin, it could be machine doubling, or it could be a DD that hasn't been around long enough for people to recognize and publicize it.
The other thing to think about is that machine doubling is flat and "shelf-like" whereas a true doubled die will have the doubling raised up to about the same height as the rest of the letters (or date, or whatever).
quote:The other thing to think about is that machine doubling is flat and "shelf-like" whereas a true doubled die will have the doubling raised up to about the same height as the rest of the letters (or date, or whatever).
This is probably the easiest and best way to note the difference in a true double die. Since a double die is struck more than once and the coin has moved, the coin would get the same information pressed on to it as the first time. Die wear coins are noticed to be just sort of ghostly doubles. The 1955 Lincoln Cent Poor Mans double die is a great example. The date shows a ghosly second date which is from excessive use of the same dies. If you watch coins closely you would see many examples of this.
double-die question
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Posted - 01/28/2009 : 07:46:12
