Just die wear and Machine Doubling. The reduction of the dies is from past polishing on the dies. The extra large looking motto devices are on all of the large date cents that year from a swollen master hub issue. This occurred on the 1968 cents, (all affected even proof cents) and also on the 1982 cents, when they recreated the master hub, so the devices were normal sized again all of the new Master Hub. Master Dies, Working hubs and Working dies. Thus with the examples of the swollen master hub and a normal (new) master hub, you have large date cent and small date cents.
Disclaimer: While a tremendous amount of effort goes into ensuring the accuracy of the information contained in this site, Coin Community assumes no liability for errors. Copyright 2005 - 2026 Coin Community Family- all rights reserved worldwide. Use of any images or content on this website without prior written permission of Coin Community or the original lender is strictly prohibited. Contact Us | Advertise Here | Privacy Policy / Terms of Use