A partial collar error occurs when the collar die — the ring that restrains the coin blank during striking — is not properly positioned. If the collar is too low, tilted, or partially retracted, part of the coin expands beyond its normal diameter while the rest remains within the collar. The result is a coin with a distinctive stepped or sloped edge, sometimes called a "railroad rim" for its resemblance to a train wheel.
The collar die is the third die in coin production, forming the edge of the coin and keeping the planchet at the correct diameter during striking. When the collar malfunctions, the planchet metal can flow outward on one side while remaining contained on the other. This creates a coin that is wider on one side than the other, with a visible ridge or step where the contained and expanded portions meet.
Partial collar error values depend on how dramatic the effect is. Subtle partial collars with barely visible ridges add modest premiums of $5-20. Dramatic partial collars with clearly visible steps and significant diameter differences can be worth $25-100+. The denomination, date, and condition also affect value. Coins with visible, undamaged design details on both sides command the best prices.
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Scan NowRailroad rim is a collector term for a partial collar error where the stepped edge profile resembles the flange on a railroad wheel. It refers to the same error — the collar die was partially out of position during striking.
They are relatively common compared to other striking errors. Minor partial collars occur frequently, while dramatic examples with large diameter differences are less common.
Yes. Any denomination can have a partial collar error because all coins use collar dies during striking. They are found on pennies through dollars.
A broadstrike expands evenly in all directions (the collar was completely absent). A partial collar expands only on one side (the collar was partially engaged). The edge step is the key — broadstrikes have no step.