1943 Lincoln Cent Error Struck on a Foreign Planchet

1943 Lincoln Cent–Struck on a Netherlands 25 Cents Planchet–AU-50 (NGC).
3.6 grams. 1943 Lincoln cents in formats other than zinc-coated steel have been a focal point in numismatics ever since 1958, when an example in bronze caused a nationwide stir and a legal controversy. Since then a number of bronze strikings have come to light and each have earned their share of publicity. Apart from these, there are certain other off-metal strikes, the present included, on foreign planchets. With 40 million Netherlands 25 cent pieces having been struck in the Philadelphia Mint during 1943 and 1944, it is not difficult to envision how a planchet for that type found its way into one of the presses active in striking 1943 Lincoln cents. The silver planchet on which this coin is struck is originally toned in an attractive antique green iridescence, a few swirls of bolder rose patina also evident in isolated areas. The strike is both complete and sharp — an uncommon attribute in a wrong planchet error — and a brief stint in circulation has imparted only light wear and a few scattered abrasions. A close relative of the ever popular 1943 bronze Lincoln cent error, an example of which is also being offered in this sale, this companion piece would make an important addition to a specialized collection.