Multidenominational Die Clash

A multidenominational die clash (MDC) occurs when a die strikes a die of another denomination. Three MDCs are known in the Flying Eagle Series and are wildly popular: 1857 MDC-001, 1857 MDC-002, and 1857 MDC-003. These multidenominational die clash varieties are also pictured below.

In the Two-Cent series, a clash with an Indian Cent have been found in 1864. A shield nickel variety in 1870 also shows clashing with an Indian Cent. However, it is not yet known if these clashed Indian Cent dies produced any Indian Cents after the clashing. None have been found in either year.

For advanced research and study then see Kevin Flynn’s new book on multidenominational die clashes and off-center clashes, titled Off-Center and Multi Denominational Clashed-Dies. Here is an excerpt:

“Off-center and multi-denominational clashed dies are two of the rarest types of die varieties created at the United States Mint. There are only 6 verified off-center and only 6 verified multi-denominational clashed dies for all 19th century coinage.”

“This type of die variety is normally created when the working dies are in the coining presses. A clashed die normally occurs when the obverse and reverse dies in the coining press strike each other without a planchet between them. This was especially common on some series such as the Three cent nickel. It was originally accepted by most that the outline of the design elements were left on the opposing working dies from the edges of the design elements. This theory was proved invalid. The remnants of the clashing is a result of the fields being compressed. A complete analysis was done to prove this theory valid.”

“Multi-denominational clashed dies occur when working dies of two different denominations strike each other without a planchet between. In all U.S. coin series there are only 6 known off-denominational clashes known; four of which occurred in 1857. One of the primary questions for this type of variety is whether they were intentionally made or simply the result of an accident. Another issue is how they could have occurred.”

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