D.D. writes: I have a 1961 Lincoln Penny that has a band around the outside edge. This band does not appear to be altered or added to this coin. Any information would be welcome.
There is no mechanism in a coin press to add a “band” around the edge of a coin. It is possible to have deep edge because of high striking pressure. Also, it is possible for a coin to get stuck to the obverse (upper) die and to strike other coins with the reverse (brockage). The “stuck” coin’s edge increases in size until the coin falls off. I once saw an Eisenhower dollar at the private museum at the Denver Mint that could pass for a small cup. Coins victim to this error have deformed reverses.
Coins are often used in advertising media and are encased in holders. The maker often will solder a band around a cent as a frame to hold the coin in place in a key ring or other advertising holder.
If you believe that your coin is a genuine mint error, you can show the coin to a coin dealer or send it to one of the Grading Services for authentication (see their links on the CoinSite Links page ).
