1973 penny with missing bud....?

Hi wert

I think it must be die erosion. I have a few 1973's as well as some 1974's with that effect, with both years in nice unc shape so I know it's not wear. The high points on the leaves and on the main branch also generally show a little roughness or lack of detail on those coins too. I haven't noticed it on any other years though.

Weak strike, not die erosion. Remember, the highest points on the devices, are of negative relief and are the deepest points on the dies.

Hi SPP -- I see what you mean. I had originally thought that it might be the high points on the die (causing the deepest parts of the coin around the bud) being worn away, but I can see that weak strike makes more sense. Thanks for the info.

wert -- not a stupid question at all, my friend. But yep, apparently they did. A few years back when I was looking for a sweet ms 1973 for my collection all I seemed to find were these weak strikes - I was beginning to think that's the way the coin was minted for that year! (lol)