FlyingAl

Every die has now been added. The catalog is complete to my knowledge. 

I took some slab shots today, and I was fairly pleased with the results. Some things need a bit more ironing out, but for now I'm happy.

Composite slab shots are done by taking a full size image of the coin and imposing it on a slab of the coin in photoshop. This gives maximum resolution of the thing that really matters - the coin. Edit: redid the 1942 dime and managed to get the prongs to line up. It was a bit tricky, but doable as I thought.

David was a huge asset to the collecting community and he will be missed. Thankfully, his legacy lives on in his works and the collectors that he has so greatly impacted. 

May Dave Rest In Peace. Condolences to his friends and family. 

Quick update - 

The nickels section is almost done, I'm hopeful I'll complete it tonight while waiting for midnight to hit. That section alone took about 30 hours. Yikes! I'm enjoying the work though. 

You guys will get to see it first!

Edit: Nickels added!

On 12/31/2022 at 3:15 PM, RWB said:

Possibly one of the special chromium plated die pairs?

An "outlier" is and "outlier" until there are enough to make them "normal."

I agree it's certainly an outlier - and seemingly the only one. All other dies have no more than 10-15 coins in CAM holders. 

I think it is quite likely that the dies were chromium plated. I own one of the coins and in hand I'd say the appearance is very similar to what I would expect from chromium flaking. I'll put two images of coins from the same die pair below and you can see how quickly the fields degraded (probably from the plating flaking). The top coin is an early die state and the bottom is later in the die life (and represents the majority appearance of CAM 1942 cents).

 

 

This is a die study of the known cameo proof coins and their die pairs based on PCGS and NGC certification. This guide’s intention is to serve as a deterrent to counterfeiters who wish to deceive collectors. It can, however, serve as a guide for collectors who wish to search for a coin from dies that had the best details they had to offer. These dies are almost always the dies that produced cameo coins. By being able to match a coin to a die pair that produced cameo coins of a later die state, collectors can obtain a coin with much higher attractiveness than usual for a normal price. 

 

Only coins with verifiable cameo dies and cameo die pairs were included, which required high quality images. These are all known and discoverable cameo die pairs for the era. Multiple altered coins were discovered in this undertaking, which was a major reason for its production. Such coins can be altered by taking a normal non-cameo coin and adding a solvent to the devices that make them appear white or coppery. When well done, this alteration can be extremely difficult to spot, even for a professional. As such, several coins have made their way into TPGS holders as altered coins, yet they were not spotted as such. The TPGS have been fervently hunting such coins and to correct their errors. The best tool for a collector to avoid this is to use die matching, which can be achieved by use of this guide.. By analyzing the die pairs used in the production of these coins, it is likely that no other altered coin will ever be certified. 

 

The numbers used are Cameo Numbers, abbreviated CA-X. The X will be replaced by the number of the die in the order it appears in the sequence of denomination and year order, commonly referred to as “Redbook order”. All cents will come before nickels and so forth. 

 

For dies discovered or added after the original set of study is complete, their numbers will come after the highest currently known die number. For a coin to be considered, it must be graded as a cameo by PCGS, NGC, or CAC. ANACS and ICG coins will be considered, so long as the contrast can be verified. In addition, another coin from the same die pair must show a similar degree of contrast, though it may not be certified as a cameo. This is used as an anti-counterfeiting safeguard. High quality images are needed for die markers and verification. In the case a cameo coin has been certified but it high quality images are not available and no other cameo coins exist, the coin will be listed as “Unverified” for the sake of completion. 

 

Die markers chosen are those that are most visible on an image. More are present than stated, but two or three of the most obvious markers were chosen. Once markers can be used to distinguish one die pair from all other pairs, no more markers are needed.

 

All information relating to die use dates is from Roger Burdette’s work on the subject, titled United States Proof Coins 1936-1942.

Coins that state “possible use dates” were not able to be conclusively narrowed down to a single die pair. Coins that state “use date” were able to be conclusively narrowed down to a single die pair. 

 

Example

CA-X (Cameo Number)

Possible Use Dates: Dates that new die pairs were used or where the die use could be narrowed to a day or set of days.

Die Markers: Markers of each die and images of those markers.

Description and Coins Possible: Description of the coins and contrasted coins likely remaining. Estimates of surviving coins are those that would be designated cameo, or in the case that very few cameos would exist, those that are strongly contrasted on one side of the coin. 

Image: Image of a cameo proof or near cameo from the same die pair. (Usually a TrueView from CoinFacts)

Note: During final completion, one extra die number had been added and all die numbers have been adjusted accordingly, bringing the total number of dies to 30.

CENTS

 

1936 Proof Cent 

CA-1

Possible Use Dates: September 15th, unknown date (incomplete die records).

Die Markers: Die gouge at eye. Die scratches extending from the right upright of the T in TRUST, impression midway up the N in CENT.

 

Figure One: Die gouge at eye.

Figure Two: Die scratch extending from the first T in TRUST. It is expected this wore away upon repolish.

Figure Three: Impression midway up the N in CENT. This was likely caused by a foreign substance entering between the coin and planchet and remaining on the dies for a time. Every known cameo proof has this impression. 

 

Description and Coins Possible: There appears to only be one die pair capable of striking proof cameo 1936 cents, but since die records are missing for a large part of the year, one cannot be sure of this. The cent is the only currently known 1936 cameo proof, which makes it quite rare in the series and it commands a substantial premium. Less than twenty contrasted pieces are likely to exist today.

Image:

 

 

1937 Proof Cent

CA-2

Possible Use Dates: January 5th, March 18th, September 8th, October 4th. 

Die Markers: Striations off of the N in ONE and E in AMERICA. Circular die lines on the obverse portrait.

Figure One: Circular die scratches. This was caused by a brief demurring in the die production process. 

Figure Two: Striations running through ONE CENT. These appear on all coins from this die pair. 
 

Description and Coins Possible: A deep cameo reverse is common.. It is likely that this die produced around forty to fifty cameo coins. Several Ultra Cameo coins were produced from this die pair, which would lead one to believe that this date and denomination is quite common when compared to other cameos. It appears that this die pair was repolished and produced a scant number of cameos after, perhaps three or four.

Image:

 

1937 Proof Cent 

CA-2A (UNCONFIRMED)

Possible Use Dates: February 23rd, March 19th, September 14th, October 20th.

Die Markers: More examples are necessary to determine die markers.

Description and Coins Possible: This die appears to be CA-2 after a repolish, and bears no major identifying features. Based on coins that the author has seen images off and in hand, this die pair shows some minor identifying features of CA-2, but without more examples it is impossible to tell for sure. As such, this pairing is unconfirmed. One coin has been designated as a cameo from it.

Image:

 

1938 Proof Cent

CA-4

Possible Use Dates: December 5th, December 14th, December 30th

Die Markers: Recut coat, weak N in CENT. Weak TED of UNITED.

Figure One: Recut coat. Note the extremely strong boundary between the edge of the coat and field.Ensure the recutting matches exactly to the pictured example. 

Figure Two: Weak bottom N in United. Note how the lower left serif appears to be misshapen which was caused by overpolishing of the die. 

Figure Three: Weak TED of UNITED. Note the weakness in definition caused by overpolishing. This is common among proof cents.

Description and Coins Possible: This is the first die pair that produced cameo coins for 1938. This die had fairly strong contrast and was likely capable of producing up to 40 cameo proof coins, which is a testament to the quality and strength of the contrast when the die was first put into service. Contrast is usually weaker on the reverse, but still readily apparent. A large proportion of 1938 proof cents come from this die, which suggests it is not from the dies pairs on December 5th or 14th. However, due to incomplete die records this cannot be confirmed. 

Image:

 

1938 Proof Cent

CA-5

Possible Use Dates: December 5th, December 27th, December 30th

Die Markers: No recutting of coat, broken U in UNITED.

Figure One: No recutting of the coat. Coins with contrast that show no recutting are likely from this die pair.

Figure Two: Broken U in UNITED. This was caused by overpolishing of the dies. Note that die pair CA-4 sometimes has weakness in UNITED, so ensure to check for coat recutting and that the weakness is in U, not TED.

Description and Coins Possible: This is the second die pair that produced cameo cents for 1938. Under twenty cameo coins are likely, possibly less. Contrast is weak when compared to other 1938 cents from CA-4, so buyers are warned to choose carefully if wanting to select a die from this die pair. 

Image: (A high resolution image showing contrast was unavailable)

 

1939 Proof Cent

CA-6

Possible Use Dates: January 6th, March 31st, November 24th.

Die Markers: Recut coat. 

Figure One: Recut coat. This full recutting of the coat line all the way up to the bow tie appears to be unique to this die pair. The reverse die shows no major identifying characteristics. As always, ensure the detail of recutting matches exactly and contrast is apparent. Photo courtesy Stacks Bowers.

Description and Coins Possible: This is the only cameo proof die for 1939 cents. Contrast is not strong, but noticeable. Overall quality is high and buyers are encouraged to look for a near cameo example rather than paying for a full cameo designated coin, as the differences may be very minor to unnoticeable. Less than fifteen cameo coins are likely. November 24th is likely the use date, as only a few examples from this die were observed. 

Image: (Courtesy Stacks Bowers)

 

1940 Proof Cent

CA-7

Possible Use Dates: January 26th, September 30th, December 16th, December 23rd.

Die Markers: Broken U in UNITED, strong coat detail. 

Figure One: Weak U in UNITED. This can appear to be full based on photographs, so ensure weakness is present. 

Figure Two: General detail is high. Note how the circled are has barely any detail missing, a very rare occurrence for 1936-42 proof cents.

Description and Coins Possible: This is the only die that produced 1940 proof cameo cents. Overall contrast is not extreme, but noticeable. Detail and quality are high. There are likely less than twenty cameo coins in existence, with less being in collectible condition. Buyers are encouraged to choose a coin with deep mirrors and obvious contrast.

Image:

 

1942 Proof Cent

CA-8

Possible Use Dates: January 15th, February 4th, March 18th. 

Die Markers: Obverse frost fade on bust, reverse O marks in ONE. 

Figure One: Frost breaks are seen on Lincoln’s shoulder. These are the most consistent identifying characteristics of this die. Based on how early the coin was struck, these could appear more or less obvious. 

 

Figure Two: Marks are sometimes seen on the O in ONE. This is not a unique and consistent die characteristic, but rather more of a checkpoint to ensure the dies are correct. 

 

Description and Coins Possible: This is the most common Lincoln cent die that produced cameo coins 1936-1942. The die appears to have been chromium plated, which extended its life drastically. Since a large number of coins were struck, the overall look of the die shifts drastically. The chrome plating would flake and leave marks in the die fields, which dulled the mirrors. Two images for this die pair are below, showing this difference. Over 150 cameo coins are likely. Several Ultra Cameo coins are known

Image:

 

1942 Proof Cent

CA-9

Possible Use Dates: January 15th, February 4th, March 18th. 

Die Markers: Fully frosted shoulder. (Image courtesy of Great Collections)

Figure One: Note how Lincoln’s shoulder appears to be fully frosted, with some slight brilliance. 

Description and Coins Possible: This appears to be the second die pair that produced 1942 proof cents. As die quality went up by 1942, die markers began to get scarce. The goal of the mint was to produce consistent coins, so having consistent dies was a target to reach. It is possible this die is a die state of CA-9, but it seems unlikely. Up to 40 cameo coins are likely. 

Image: (Second courtesy of Great Collections)

 

 

NICKELS

 

1937 Proof Nickel 

CA-10

Use Date: January 6th.

Die Markers: Die polish in the Indian’s hair, die polish above LIBERTY. Striation above second A in AMERICA. Die polish through CENTS.

Figure One: Die polish runs through the Indian’s hair. This was likely caused by a brief final deburring of all dies before use. Since proof dies were only different from circulation dies in their final polish, these lines can appear on circulation strike coinage as well.

Figure Two: Die polish above LIBERTY.

Figure Three: Striation above the last A in AMERICA on the reverse. This is, surprisingly, the most obvious marker at most angles. 

Figure Four: Die polish runs through CENTS. This is most obvious between the uprights of the N. 

Description and Coins Possible: No known contrasted coins from second new die pair. Less than forty truly contrasted cameo coins are likely still extant today. Overall contrast is even on the obverse and reverse, though not approaching deep contrast. This is the only option for a collector seeking a contrasted example of the Buffalo nickel, and as such these coins are highly prized. Near cameo examples bring substantial premiums, so the collector is cautioned to choose a strongly contrasted coin.

Image:

 

1938 Proof Nickel 

CA-11

Possible Use Dates: October 20th, 27th. November 2nd, 16th, 18th, 22nd, 23rd. December 8th, 29th.

Die Markers: FS-402 Recut Ribbon. Die polish on Jefferson’s cheek. 

Figure One: Recut ribbon (FS-402). The FS-402 and FS-403 varieties are best distinguished by the FS-402 lacking recutting of LIBERTY. Also note the light die polish running across Jefferson’s cheek.

Description and Coins Possible: Only known die pair. All coins have a highly contrasted obverse approaching deep cameo with weaker contrasted reverse. A PCGS PR67CAM example is an altered coin. Less than ten likely exist today, and it is very likely that most die pairs were overpolished for the year, resulting in the single cameo worthy die pair. Several star coins are known, presumably from the same die pair (this could not be verified). Only four distinct examples could be traced, and only two of those are in CAM holders.

Image: A near cameo example was chosen to represent the die pair in high resolution.

 

1939 Proof Nickel (REV 38)

CA-12

Use Date: January 9th.

Die Markers: Recut ribbon, minor frost break on cheek. Circular die scratches on bust.

Figure One: Recut ribbon. Ensure that the recutting is an exact match. This feature generally remains unchanged for the entirety of the die’s life.

Figure Two: Minor frost break on cheek. See full size image below for a better representation of the break. This appears to be an area where the acid dip of die cleanup did not reach during production. 

Figure Three: Circular die scratches are seen on the bust of Jefferson. This was likely caused by a brief final deburring of all dies before use. Since proof dies were only different from circulation dies in their final polish, these lines can appear on circulation strike coinage as well. 

Description and Coins Possible: This is the rarer of the two proof cameo variations of the 1939 nickel. This is somewhat ironic because it appears that the reverse of 1938 coinage represents about 93% of the surviving 1939 nickel population, but they account for nearly no cameos. Only one cameo has been certified for the reverse of 1938, and it is expected to have a very weakly frosted reverse. Less than ten contrasted coins are likely to currently exist. However, these coins show very strongly frosted obverses with full detail, and they are a good option for a contrasted 1939 nickel even if the reverse is lacking in contrast. This obverse die accounts for a large portion (seemingly around half) of Reverse of 1938 coinage, so it’s use date was likely January 9th (7,882 coins struck over die #36’s usage (63% of Reverse of 1938 coinage)) 

Image: A near cameo coin has been chosen to give a high resolution representation of the coin.

 

1939 Proof Nickel (REV 40)

CA-13

Use Date: Unknown. Incomplete die data leaves no logical possible pairings.

Die Markers: Reverse of 1940. Recut ribbon.

Figure One: Reverse of 1940. Note the sharp end to the steps and strong clear steplines that are the key diagnostics.

Figure Two: Recut ribbon. All 1939 Reverse of 1940 proof nickels have this same recutting. 

Description and Coins Possible: This is the more common 1939 cameo nickel, which is unexpected. Since the Reverse of 1940 proof nickels are quite scarce among the mintage, it would be unlikely that the one die pair used would produce cameos. Less than 15 contrasted coins likely still remain today. The coins appear to show a weakly contrasted obverse, and this obverse was also used on some Reverse of 1938 Proof coinage. As such, no logical die pairings can be used to match the date of use, as the die logs are incomplete.

Image:

 

1940 Proof Nickel (REV 38)

CA-14

Use Date: January 30th.

Die Markers: Reverse of 1938. Obverse die polish along bust, recut ribbon.

Figure One: Reverse of 1938. Note the wavy and indistinct steplines and the lack of a clear end to the steps.

Figure Two: Die polish along the bust of Jefferson. These lines appear on all Reverse of 1938 coins.

Figure Three: Recut ribbon. All 1940 Reverse of 1938 nickels share the same obverse die.

Description and Coins Possible: Only 900 coins were struck with a leftover die from 1939, which is likely the source of Reverse of 1938 coins. Very few contrasted pieces were likely made, and even less currently exist. Five or so remaining seems to be a likely number. Contrast is limited, and cost is likely high if one is to come across a designated example. Buyers are encouraged to buy a non-designated example to provide a coin with contrast at a fraction of the cost.

Image: A near cameo coin has been chosen to represent the die pair in high resolution.

 

1940 Proof Nickel (REV 40)

CA-15

Use Date: September 11th.

Die Markers: Recut and weak ribbon, heavy reverse die polish across Monticello. 

Figure One: Recut and weak ribbon. Note the recut top of Jefferson’s hair ribbon and the lack of detail for the rest of the ribbon.

Figure Two: Heavy die polish across Monticello. Note how the die polish goes under the devices. This is usually obvious even on a dark photo.

Description and Coins Possible: This die pair usually shows the best contrast of the three 1940 Reverse of 1940 dies. It has even matched contrast with deep mirrors, while the other die pair has less contrast and weaker mirrors. Both die pairs produced nice coins, but collectors are encouraged to choose this die pair for their collections. Less than fifteen contrasted pieces are likely still in existence.

Image:

 

1940 Proof Nickel (REV 40)

CA-16

Use Date: October 7th.

Die Markers: Recut ribbon. Die chips on reverse windows. 

Figure One: Recut ribbon. Note the intricacy and detail of the recutting.

Figure Two: Die chips on top of the windows. This detail can separate CA-16 and CA-16A.

Description and Coins Possible: This appears to be the earlier die state of CA-16A. Contrast is limited, and this die pair can be easily visually separated from CA-15 by a quick glance because mirror depth is lacking. Buyers are encouraged to buy a coin from this die pair if and only if one can be acquired for little to no premium over a brilliant piece. Less than ten contrasted coins are likely.

Image:

 

1940 Proof Nickel (REV 40)

CA-16A

Use Date: October 23rd.

Die Markers: Detached recut ribbon, die polish on obverse bust.

Figure One: Detached recut ribbon. Note how the upper portion of the ribbon has been recut but the base of the recutting never attaches back to the ribbon. 

Figure Two: Die polish on Jefferson’s bust. 

Description and Coins Possible: This appears to be a reuse of CA-16’s obverse after a polish, recutting of the ribbon, and a new reverse. The ribbons between the two die pairs change little, and it seems extremely unlikely that an engraver could match the detail to such a degree as to render it nearly unnoticeable by hand. As such, this die has been cataloged as a subset of CA-16. If new evidence suggests this is its own die, the listing will be changed. Contrast is extremely limited on the obverse, and again buyers are encouraged to buy a coin from this die pair if and only if a coin can be bought for little to no premium. Less than five contrasted coins are likely. 

Image: A non-contrasted representative coin has been chosen to represent the die pair in high resolution.

 

1942 Proof Nickel (TYPE ONE)

CA-18

Possible Use Dates: January 19th, February 5th, March 16th, May 5th. 

Die Markers: Die polish through ribbon, reverse die polish through Monticello.

Figure One: Die polish through Jefferson's ribbon.

Figure Two: Die polish through Monticello. The lines go in a circular pattern suggesting a brief touch up with a lap before final polish. 

Description and Coins Possible: This appears to be the only 1942 Type One die pair capable of producing cameo coins. The obverse is heavily contrasted while the reverse shows light contrast. Collectors usually prefer matched obverses and reverses, but there is no other option here. Less than ten contrasted coins are probably still in collector hands. The obverse of this pairing is only rivaled by the best 1942-P nickels.

 

Image:

 

1942-P Proof Nickel (TYPE TWO)

CA-19

Possible Use Dates: October 29th, December 17th, December 23rd, December 28th. 

Die Markers: Obverse die polish, reverse striation under MONTICELLO.

Figure One: Obverse die polish. More die polish is found along the base of the bust.

Figure Two: Striation along MONTICELLO. Note the thin silver line running through the T, under ICE, and through the first L.

Description and Coins Possible:  This is the best die pair for 1942 contrasted nickels. A single deep cameo coin has been certified from this die pair, and the die pair shows strong contrast. Buyers are encouraged to pick this die for type purposes or for their collections. Under thirty contrasted coins are likely still extant. 

Image:

 

1942-P Proof Nickel (TYPE TWO)

CA-20

Possible Use Dates: October 29th, December 17th, December 23rd, December 28th. 

Die Markers: Recut ribbon. 

Figure One: Recut ribbon. This is extremely obvious and the most noticeable of every recut ribbon. It is of high quality and good detail.

Description and Coins Possible: This is the second die pair that produced cameo coins for the 1942-P nickel. Contrast is weak, and only one coin has been certified from it, possibly in error. Buyers are advised heavily to buy a coin from CA-20.

Image: A representative coin from the die pair has been chosen to represent it in high resolution.

DIMES

 

1937 Proof Dime (Unverified)

CA-21

Possible Use Dates: January 1st, January 11th, May 13th. 

Die Markers: Unverified.

Description and Coins Possible: This is what appears to be the only 1937 proof cameo dime, possibly certified in error. Several die pairs show what appears to be appreciable contrast, but not enough to be cameo. It is also possible that this coin is from a die pair that struck less than 100 coins, which would explain why it is the sole survivor. At this time, the images are not good enough to be certain. 

Image:

Image:

 

 

1939 Proof Dime

CA-22

Possible Use Dates: January 10th, March 21st, December 1st, December 13th.

Die Markers: Obverse die scratches, strong reverse ribbon and E PLURIBUS UNUM.

Figure One: Obverse die polish. Note the two indicated areas, as these are the most obvious markers of the obverse of this die pair. The second circled section of scratches frequently appears even on zoomed out images.

 

Figure Two: Fully connected ribbon of the fasces. This is a good checkpoint to distinguish teh two cameo die pairs. Ensure that the ribbon is fully connected.

 

Figure Three: Strong E PLURIBUS UNUM. Note the two circled area that are the major points of distinction from other die pairs.

 

Description and Coins Possible: This is the best die pair for 1939 cameo proof dimes. SOme NGC star cameo coins have been authenticated, attesting to the strong contrast of early strikes from this die. In addition to the markers above, this die pair commonly has a slight clockwise rotation of the reverse die, which is common for coins of this era but may be useful in authentication. Buyers are encouraged to select a high quality example of a cameo from this die for their collections. Twenty to thirty cameo coins are likely, although this die appears with slightly less frequency than the other 1939 cameo dime die pair.

Image:

1939 Proof Dime

CA-23

Possible Use Dates: January 10th, March 21st, December 1st, December 13th.

Die Markers: Weak connection of reverse ribbon, weak E PLURIBUS UNUM, major reverse striation.

Figure One: Weak connection between the ribbon and fasces. Ensure that there is visible weakness in the connection.

Figure Two: Weak E PLURIBUS UNUM. Note the weak S and M that are the key points of weakness.

Figure Three: Major reverse striation spanning nearly the entire right field of the reverse. This can only be seen at certain angles and is not obvious in many images.

 

Description and Coins Possible: This is the more weakly contrasted 1939 cameo proof die. However, contrast is strong and many dimes from this die pair reside in cameo holders. There are likely twenty to thirty contrasted pieces from this die pair in existence. Buyers are encouraged to seek out a near cameo piece from this die pair, as they seem to be slightly more prevalent than coins from CA-22. 

Image:

 

1940 Proof Dime (Unverified)

CA-24

Possible Use Dates: January 31st, February 20th, April 16th, October 9th, December 12th. 

Die Markers: Slight reverse die rotation. See full image, note obverse is not centered in the holder. 

Description and Coins Possible: This appears to be one of the few 1940 proof dimes certified as cameo. Several other coins from this die pair have been noticed, but none are designated as cameo. Buyers are encouraged to look elsewhere for a nice cameo proof dime. If a 1940 is needed, choose an example that isn’t designated as a cameo. 

Image:

 

1941 Proof Dime (Unverified)

CA-25

Possible Use Dates: January 23rd, February 3rd, March 11th. 

Die Markers: Unverified.

Description and Coins Possible: This is what appears to be the only 1941 proof cameo dime, possibly certified in error. Contrast is likely to be limited, and finding a good example of a contrasted piece is likely to be a challenge. 

Image:

1942 Proof Dime

CA-26

Possible Use Dates: January 20th, February 2nd, July 20th. 

Die Markers: Non-split bands. 

Figure One: Completed Bands. This is unusual for a proof, as the pressure that was used in the medal press is more than enough to complete the design and split them. As such, the cause was likely die damage or grease filling the die. As this is very obvious, no further markers are necessary.

 

Description and Coins Possible: This is the first die that produced cameo coins for 1942. Both dies appear equal in contrast quality, so the choice of a die pair is not much of an issue. This die shows a very obvious reverse die rotation, which can be used to quickly identify it. About 15 or less cameo coins are likely. Contrast is strong and mirrors are deep.

Image:

 

1942 Proof Dime

CA-27 

Possible Use Dates: January 20th, February 2nd, July 20th. 

Die Markers: Die line through eye. 

Figure One: A die chip and line appear near Liberty’s eye. This was likely damage to the working die during production. This is also fairly obvious, so no further markers are necessary.

Description and Coins Possible: This is the second die pair that produced cameo coins for 1942. Contrast is strong and obvious, and this is a great choice for a type set or just a contrasted Mercury dime. Less than 15 contrasted coins are likely. 

Image:

 

HALF DOLLARS 

 

1938 Proof Half Dollar

CA-28

Use Date: December 27th.

Die Markers: Weak U in TRUST. Strong solar rays, very weak AW. Third from left solar ray has a “broken top” where the ray was partially polished away.

Figure One: Weak AW. Note how barely any part of the monogram still exists. This is an important marker of this die, make sure that the monogram is barely visible.

Figure Two: Weak U in TRUST.

Figure Three: “Broken Top” of the third from left ray. Part of the ray remains visible for high quality coins, but fades as the die wore.

Description and Coins Possible: This appears to be the only die that produced cameo coins for the denomination and year. 1938 is usually the second best option for cameo proof half dollars of this era. Less than ten contrasted coins are likely to exist in collectible condition today. Multiple collectors who have viewed one such cameo proof have stated that the coin is near deep cameo contrast. This could not be verified, but based on images and the number of near cameo examples it does seem likely. 

Image:

 

1939 Proof Half Dollar

CA-29

Use Date: February 6th.

Die Markers: Weak upright of D in GOD. Weak RU in TRUST. Fourth from left solar ray is polished short. Strong AW, full eagle wings. Die wear “starburst” is present in the obverse and reverse fields.

Figure One: Weak fourth from left solar ray. This has been polished from the die, though it is interesting similar areas of relief seem unaffected.

Figure Two: Weak D in GOD and U in TRUST

Figure Three: Full eagle wings. Note how a section of the wing appears behind the eagle’s head, this is an extreme low point on the die and this die pair is the only proof die that ever left this part of the die visibly intact with detail. 

 

Figure Four: Full AW. The reverse die maintained an exceptionally high level of detail while still showing contrast. The AW was among the first parts of the die to be polished away, as it was raised on the die.

Description and Coins Possible: This die pair shows particularly weak contrast. Buyers are encouraged from avoiding any designated cameo proof from it. Mirrors are likely to be weak, and the sun appears to have minor frost. Very few designated proofs will likely ever exist, but up to twenty contrasted coins from the die pair are expected to still be in collector hands. Coins from this die pair and state are a good option for the collector who wishes to own a high quality example of a proof Walking Liberty half dollar and is highly suggested for type collectors. Since many near cameo coins have no designation, the knowledgeable collector can buy one such proof for the same price as a coin with no contrast.

Image:

 

1942 Proof Half Dollar

CA-30

Use Date: February 11th. 

Die Markers: Exceptional detail, strong IN GOD WE TRUST and complete AW. Roger Burdette’s book states this as a doubled die obverse, this was unable to be verified. 

Figure One: Note the full AW monogram. This is an especially important diagnostic of this die pair, the AW must be complete and strong.

Figure Two: Note strong detail of IN GOD WE TRUST, and the full solar rays. 

Description and Coins Possible: This die produced the best cameo proof Walking Liberty half dollars. Buyers are encouraged to select a coin from this die pair for their collection if they seek a designated cameo coin. The combination of high detail quality and exceptional contrast leave little to be desired. Less than 25 contrasted coins likely currently exist from this die pair. 

Image:

 

Merry Christmas!