Expert: PAPAJACK - 10/2/2008

Question
I just received from the mint the Alaska Two-Roll Set (40/P
listed as Aisle PA01 Bin OR61.

In the Philadelphia Roll two of the quarters do not have the initials CLV in the 4 o'clock position.  One coin is very faint for the CLV that can only be seen with magnifigation showing a V and the other has a smug in the coin where the CLV is located.  

Is this a dirt/grease build up or where their dies that had defects and would these two coins be more valuable than the others in the roll.

Your consideration in this matter is appreciated.  

Answer
Hello John,                                       

I think this is a filled die type error.  Whether it was filled with grease or debris from the manufacturing process does not matter.
The Initials are so small and not deeply recessed into the reverse die that they easily become filled and therefore do not strike properly.

Also the rolled coins the mint is selling come directly from the high speed presses on the production floor meant for circulation.  You have the same quality coins coming from banks as from the mint.

They would have no premium value to collectors since they are not fully struck!
Someone may pay for it as a novelty but it would be less than a dollar.

Good Question!

PapaJack