Lamination errors occur when impurities, gas pockets, or contamination in the coin metal cause it to separate into layers. The resulting defects range from small surface flakes to dramatic peeling and even complete planchet splitting. Lamination errors originate during planchet preparation — before the coin is ever struck — making them distinct from striking or die errors.
Coin metal must be uniform and properly bonded throughout its thickness. When the alloy contains impurities, trapped gas, or foreign material inclusions, the layers of metal don't bond properly. These weak spots can manifest before, during, or after striking.
Lamination values depend on severity — small flakes carry minimal premiums, while dramatic peeling, split planchets, or large missing areas are more collectible. Clean, well-preserved examples with clear lamination characteristics are preferred.
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Scan Your Coin NowImpurities, gas pockets, or contamination in the coin metal during planchet preparation. These defects create weak spots where the metal layers can separate during or after striking.
Lamination shows clean metal layers separating in sheets or flakes with consistent thickness. Corrosion produces irregular pitting, discoloration, and rough surfaces that don't follow the metal's layer structure.
Split planchets are a severe form of lamination where the coin has separated into two thin halves. They are the most dramatic lamination type and among the most collectible.
Yes, lamination errors can appear on coins from any era because they result from planchet preparation defects, not striking conditions. Modern production methods reduce but don't eliminate them.