Die Crack and Cud Coin Errors
Die cracks and cuds are among the most common mint errors. They occur when a coin die develops cracks from stress and fatigue. Small cracks create raised lines on coins, while major breaks at the rim produce blobs of extra metal called cuds.
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Die Crack
A fine raised line on the coin surface caused by a crack in the die. The crack fills with metal during striking.
How to check: Look for thin raised lines running across the design. They may be straight or curved and can cross multiple design elements.
$2 - $25Die Cud (Retained)
A major die break at the rim where a piece of the die has broken away but remains in place, creating a raised blob at the rim.
How to check: Feel along the rim for any raised irregular bumps. Cuds appear as featureless raised metal at the rim edge.
$25 - $200+Full Die Break (CUD)
A piece of the die has completely broken away, leaving a large featureless area on the coin.
How to check: A section of the coin will show no design details, replaced by a flat or slightly raised blank area.
$50 - $500+Interior Die Break
A die break that occurs within the design field rather than at the rim.
How to check: Look for irregular raised areas within the design that lack the normal detail.
$10 - $100Quick Checks
- Run your fingernail across the coin — raised lines indicate die cracks
- Check the rim all the way around for any raised blobs (cuds)
- Die cracks are raised on the coin (incuse lines are usually damage)
- Larger and longer die cracks are worth more than small ones
- Multiple die cracks on one coin can increase value
Frequently Asked Questions
What is the difference between a die crack and a cud?
A die crack is a thin raised line caused by a crack in the die. A cud is a larger break, typically at the rim, where a piece of the die has broken away, leaving a raised featureless blob.
Are die cracks valuable?
Minor die cracks add $2-$5 in value. Major die cracks and cuds can be worth $25-$500+ depending on size and location. Cuds on key date coins command the highest premiums.
How do I know if a line on my coin is a die crack?
Die cracks are raised above the coin surface. Scratches are incuse (dug into the surface). Run your fingernail across the line — if it catches going UP, it is likely a die crack. Upload to ErrorHunt for AI confirmation.
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