Indent Coin Errors: Partial Impressions from Stacked Planchets
An indent error occurs when two planchets are accidentally stacked together during striking, but only partially overlapping. The top planchet receives a full strike on its exposed portion but leaves an indent — a shallow impression — on the lower planchet where it overlapped. Both coins exit the press with evidence of the stacking: the top coin with a partial strike, and the bottom coin with a smooth, recessed area.
What This Means
Indent errors demonstrate that the automated feed system occasionally places two blanks in the striking chamber simultaneously. When the blanks partially overlap, the dies cannot reach the covered portions of the lower planchet. The upper planchet acts as a shield, creating a smooth, unstruck area on the coin below. The shape and size of the indent correspond to the overlapping portion of the other planchet.
What to Look For
- A smooth, recessed oval or circular area on one side of the coin
- The indent has a uniform depth and smooth bottom — not a gouge or dent
- Normal struck design on the non-indented portions
- The indent shape is consistent with a round planchet overlapping the coin
- Sometimes a faint design transfer is visible within the indent
- The opposite side may show a slight raised area corresponding to the indent
Common Mistakes to Avoid
- Confusing post-mint contact damage with a genuine indent error
- Not recognizing that genuine indents have smooth, uniform recesses
- Mistaking a vice mark or pressure damage for a planchet indent
- Not examining the shape — indents from planchets are curved, matching the round blank
- Assuming all indents are from same-denomination planchets — cross-denomination indents exist
What Affects Value
Indent error values depend on the size of the indent relative to the coin, the clarity of any design transfer within the indent, and the denomination. Larger indents are more valuable. Cross-denomination indents (where the indenting planchet was a different denomination) are particularly interesting and desirable. Values range from $15-30 for minor indents to $50-200+ for dramatic examples.
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Scan NowFrequently Asked Questions
What causes an indent error?
Two planchets are fed into the striking chamber together, partially overlapping. The top blank prevents the die from reaching part of the bottom blank, creating a smooth, recessed area.
How can I tell an indent from damage?
Genuine indents have smooth, uniformly recessed areas with curved boundaries matching a round planchet. Damage tends to show rough surfaces, tool marks, or irregular shapes.
Are indent errors common?
They are moderately common among striking errors. Minor indents from small overlaps are found with some regularity, while large, dramatic indents are less common.
Can an indent be from a different denomination?
Yes. If planchets of different denominations mix in the feed system, a larger planchet can indent a smaller coin or vice versa. Cross-denomination indents are particularly collectible.