1971 D Lincoln Penny Missing "L" in Liberty on Observe 1 1

[Cary Coins]

This 1971 D Lincoln Penny makes me laugh each time I see it.  Reminds me of Ebu and the Liberty mispronounced iberty insurance commericals.

Over the years I've come across 2 to 3 similar coins missing a letter.  I know they aren't uncommon or particularly desirable but I like this one.  In research missing letters or numbers on coins, I can't find a solid conclusion on how a missing letter or number comes about.  Is anyone familiar with the cause?

 

 

 

[EagleRJO]

On 2/18/2024 at 10:39 AM, Cary Coins said:

Is anyone familiar with the cause?

Either the letter gets knocked off, as at that time cents were solid copper which is a very soft metal, or something like grease or grit fills the die at that letter.  I don't see any abrasions in the area of the missing "L" so it's likely from a grease filled die.

[Greenstang]

I would say a partial grease filled die. Not uncommon especially around the edges.