Hey everyone! I recently stumbled upon an 1893-S Morgan Dollar that really piqued my interest due to a slight die break on the obverse. It’s incredible to think that a coin this old can still present such unique characteristics! The break is minor but noticeable, and it got me wondering about the story behind it. I’ve done a bit of research, and while I found a few mentions of similar anomalies in other coins from the same year, I haven’t seen anything quite like mine yet.
As a collector, I find it fascinating how these little quirks can add so much character and value to a piece. The overall condition of my coin is decent, with just a bit of wear, but the die break really stands out. Has anyone else encountered similar die breaks or variations in their collections? What do you think affects the value of coins with these types of imperfections? I’m curious to hear your experiences and insights!
Looking forward to the discussion! Have you found any interesting varieties in your own collections recently?
That’s a fascinating find! The 1893-S Morgan Dollar is already a collectible coin due to its rarity, but the presence of a die break adds an interesting layer. Die breaks occur due to a variety of reasons, such as wear on the die or pressure during the minting process. These anomalies can affect the grade and, subsequently, the value of the coin. From my experience, coins with identifiable die breaks tend to attract collectors who appreciate unique characteristics. However, the impact on value can be variable; some collectors might see it as a flaw, while others see it as a historical marker. Have you documented the die break well with photographs? It could be a great addition to your collection if you decide to share it online or even with local dealers. Would love to see it!
(P.S. Check out this guide on die varieties: PCGS Die Varieties)
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Thanks for the insights, @NumismaticNerd! I appreciate the info on die breaks and their relationship with value. I haven’t taken high-quality pictures yet, but I’m planning to do so soon. I’m curious about the stories behind such characteristics. Have you found any varieties like this in your collection?
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I think I’ve seen a few die breaks in my collection! One of my favorites is an 1896-O quarter with a noticeable crack. It just gives the coin such personality, don’t you think? I agree with @NumismaticNerd about it being a conversation starter among fellow collectors. It’s sometimes frustrating to explain why I prefer coins with these imperfections, but when you find the right audience, it really pays off by making connections through shared interests.
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Totally agree, @SilverSeeker07! Coins with unique defects often have their own story to tell. I once purchased a 1942 nickel that had an odd die crack. At first, I thought it was a defect, but then I learned that it actually added a premium to the value due to its collectibility. It’s all about perspective! Have you ever had a collector try to down-talk the anomalies of your coins? It happens to me sometimes, but I stand my ground! 
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Die breaks can be tricky! It’s important to distinguish between minor imperfections that add character and more severe defects that may detract from the coin’s overall grade. With the 1893-S specifically, it’s a good idea to keep an eye on auction results—many collectors will pay more for coins with interesting die breaks as long as they don’t affect the eye appeal too much. I’d suggest visiting NGC’s auction results to gauge current market interest. If I could see your coin, I’d be able to give better opinions on its potential value!
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Great point, @OldCoinGuy! I’ll definitely check out the auction results. I’m excited to see how unique traits influence value. If I could get a good picture up, I’d love to share it! Thanks for your input!
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Die breaks can add so much character! I recently bought an 1885-CC with a die clash, and it has become one of my favorite pieces! It just proves that every coin has its own life story. Do you think these types of coins will become more popular as newer collectors come into the hobby? I’d love to hear your thoughts.
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That’s an interesting question, @HistoryBuff92! I think that as the hobby continues to evolve, many collectors are leaning toward coins with unique histories and characteristics. Die breaks and other anomalies are certainly appealing to those who appreciate a rich narrative behind their coins. I wouldn’t be surprised if they grow in popularity, especially with the advent of social media where collectors can showcase and share their rarities. It’s a great time to be in the hobby!
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So true! I love when I see coins that tell a story. @CoinWhisperer, I’ve also noticed that many younger collectors seem drawn to error coins because of their uniqueness and the backstory they bring. It’s like owning a piece of history that’s got a character of its own. Keep sharing those stories, everyone! They make this hobby so enriching!
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I completely agree, @CoinConnoisseur88! The narrative behind coins is absolutely essential. Speaking of which, does anyone here follow any coin historians or Instagram accounts dedicated to discussing unique coin flaws? I’ve found a few that are quite enlightening! Let’s keep this discussion going!
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