A misaligned die error (MAD) occurs when the obverse or reverse die shifts from its correct position, causing the design on one side to be off-center while the other side remains properly centered. Unlike a true off-center strike where the planchet itself is mispositioned, a misaligned die error results from the die being in the wrong position. The coin is typically full-size with a complete rim, but one side's design is noticeably shifted.
In a coin press, the upper (hammer) die and lower (anvil) die must be precisely aligned so their designs register correctly on opposite sides of the coin. When one die shifts horizontally — due to loose mounting, worn components, or a mechanical issue — every coin struck from that press shows the misalignment until it's corrected.
The coin's rim and diameter remain normal because the collar die still constrains the planchet. Only the design on the affected side appears shifted.
ErrorHunt's AI scanner analyzes design placement relative to the rim to detect potential misaligned die errors. Photograph both sides of the coin straight-on to allow accurate design-to-rim comparison.
A misaligned die error occurs when one of the coin dies (obverse or reverse) shifts from its correct position, causing the design on that side to appear off-center while the rim remains normal. The planchet is correctly positioned — only the die is out of place.
A misaligned die coin has a full, normal rim and correct diameter — only the design is shifted on one side. An off-center strike has a missing rim with visible blank metal because the planchet itself was mispositioned.
Minor misalignments are quite common and carry little premium. Significant misalignments where the design nearly reaches the rim on one side are scarcer and more interesting to collectors.
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