Posted 11/26/2010 5:07 pm
These lines are die cracks; cracks form in the die over time as it whacks metal over and over for hours and days. Because of the cracks in the die, the metal flows into these lines when the coin is pressed, they are a fairly common feature of many series of coins out there, but the more impressive ones--in my experience at least-- do fetch a small premium. Sometimes these cracks make pretty spectacular effects that collectors such as myself quite enjoy. I think some folks don't like 'em. Personal preference I suppose!
-SCS
-SCS
