Weird Quarter Error

[osbornm1-migration]

Hi! My son found a weird error on a 2005 West Virginia quarter in our laundry quarters, and I since I know nothing about coins, and can't find much on this particular error on the internet, I'm hoping someone here might be able to help me.

 

The error is like a small tab shaped piece of metal that come out from the edge/threading, and folds over onto the back. It reaches past the lip that is around the edge on the back, and touches the edge of the picture of the new river gorge. I can't find a picture or description on a website that describes what this is. I've attached a few pictures, sorry that it's not a great picture, I just took it with my macbook. I plan on taking it to Liberty Coins in Lansing, MI, but would like to learn a little about this before going. Does anyone have any information that they can give me?

 

Thanks!

 

Melissa

[RMontgomery]

Melissa,

 

The mint error you have photographed is what is referred to as a Rim Cud. This occurs when the die that strikes the coin cracks, then ultimately a piece of the die chips away, leaving a void for the metal of the coin to fill into. Errors like this do occur quite frequently. Hopefully, your local dealer will be able to assist in finding the price for the coin, however, he may refer you to a Mint Error specialist who can give you a more accurate value. One website you may refer to is minterrornews.com which might help in establishing a value.

 

Mint errors are a great way for new collectors to become interested in this hobby. Hopefully your son will continue to show an interest in this hobby that is educational, historical, and fun.

 

Rick Montgomery