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October 3, 2008

Split Planchet Errors Part 3


Australian 20c Clamshell Split Planchet Error
In Part 1 of the Split Planchet Errors series of articles brief mention was made of the so called 'clamshell' partially split planchet. This sort of error (as seen above) happens when there is a weakness in the metal of the planchet and the coin fractures along the weakness. However, in the case of the 'clamshell' the weakness may not run through the entire planchet resulting in a partially separated coin. Typically the side that is split is opened up slightly giving the characteristic clamshell appearance.

Some collectors of this sort of error may try to encourage the coin to separate completely through mechanical means or perhaps by repeatedly subjecting the coin to freezing temperatures. When the coin does split completely the result is the more typical sort of split planchet error seen in the first part of this series of articles.

Posted by mnemtsas at October 3, 2008 9:03 PM
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