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Off-Center Strike

1 min readGlossary

An off-center strike happens when the planchet is misaligned during striking, leaving part of the design missing and sometimes showing a blank crescent area. It helps collectors describe coins consistently, compare examples, and make smarter decisions.

Off-Center Strike is tied to the minting process, so the key question is: “Did this happen at the mint, or after the coin left the mint?” That distinction separates true errors/varieties from damage. Look for consistent metal flow and patterns that match known examples documented by specialists.

For collectors who love discovery, production terms reward careful observation. Compare multiple coins of the same type, use clean lighting, and zoom in on diagnostics. Many mint-made features are subtle-doubling, die lines, small breaks-so patience is part of the fun.

Unusual coins can attract counterfeits and exaggerated claims, so focus on diagnostics and, for higher value pieces, consider third-party certification. Even common errors can be collectible, but rarity, demand, and condition still matter. #CoinsFarm #Coins A practical habit is to photograph the coin straight-on and at a slight angle, since surface texture can change with lighting. If you’re unsure, compare multiple examples and avoid assuming rarity from a single odd-looking feature. Keeping notes (where found, price paid, and condition observations) makes collecting more rewarding over time.

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