to me it looks like a contact mark/damage ,considering the flattening on top serifs of U and M that have been flattened and moved in the same direction towards the area in question.
Thanks for the opinions. My reasoning aligns with Numisma and that the "M" tips aren't smeared or misshapen like a hit would cause. Also, it looks like there are three parts to this object which is joined at a middle point. There is a small part just under "RIB" and two larger burr shaped goin through and above "UM". This is not consistent with a coin or coins contact marks.
"Pride is yoked with callous behavior, as humility is with compassion." St. Gregory Palamas
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