Expert: Dmitry Livshits - 1/8/2012

Question
QUESTION: I have a 1954 Commemorative Florin in uncirculated condition with the letters LORIN in FLORIN doubled, further I have several other coins of this type but this is the only one with this error and was wondering if it is a known variety and  what would the value of this coin be? Your comments will be much appreciated.

Regards John

ANSWER: Hi John,
Value will depend on what type of doubling this is. If it's mechanical doubling, which happens as a result of "slipping" of the die when it strikes the coin, it will not add much value. Same for doubling due to die deterioration. If you have a coin that was struck from a double hubbed die, that will add significant value.
A clear picture is necessary here. I cannot tell you anything specific without seeing the doubling.
Thanks for the question! =)

---------- FOLLOW-UP ----------

QUESTION: Dmitry - I appreciate your professional advice and have provided pictures of the doubling please refer to the  attachment

Regards John

Answer
Hi again john,
Sorry for the delay in answering your question.

This is mechanical doubling (also called machine doubling or strike doubling). It is identified as flat shelving, typical on one side of a letter.
Die deterioration doubling looks similar, but may look rounded and not perfectly even like the flat shelving.
A double die will have some separation between the character and it's doubled image. Sometimes it's just slight separation in the serifs of letters, sometimes it can be major.

Here's a great link on types of doubling: http://koinpro.tripod.com/Articles/OtherFormsOfDoubling.htm

This site has US coins pictures as examples, but the principles apply to Australiana and other countries coins as well.

Thanks again! =)