Uniface Coins
Uniface coin errors are among the more unusual and visually distinct types of minting mistakes. These errors occur when a coin is struck with a die on only one side, leaving the opposite side completely blank (or with only faint traces of a planchet or die anomaly). A true uniface coin will display full design detail on one side and a flat, featureless surface on the other.
How Do They Occur?
A uniface error typically results when a coin planchet is fed into the press in such a way that it is struck with only one die. This can happen under several conditions:
A coin is struck with a die on one side, while the other die is missing or obstructed.
A struck coin fails to eject, causing a second blank planchet to be struck only against one die (this can result in uniface brockage errors).
Improper press setup where only one die is functioning.
In either case, the finished coin has a distinct one-sided appearance. These types of errors are relatively scarce and are especially desirable on high-denomination coins or older issues.
Recognizing Uniface Coins
To confirm a true uniface error, look for the following traits:
One side has complete strike detail.
Opposite side is entirely blank or nearly blank.
No evidence of post-mint damage (e.g., grinding or polishing).
Smooth surface on the blank side with consistent color and luster.
Be wary of altered coins or “pocket pieces” that have been smoothed down after minting to resemble uniface errors. Authenticity is key in assigning proper value.
Valuation Chart
Denomination | Typical Value Range (Common Type) | Rare Dates / Denominations | Notable Sale Prices / Notes |
|---|---|---|---|
Lincoln Cent | $40 – $150 | Off-metal planchets, early dates | Up to $500+ for premium uniface strikes |
Jefferson Nickel | $50 – $200 | Older nickels, mint marked examples | Higher prices when paired with other errors |
Roosevelt Dime | $75 – $300 | 1960s-1970s examples preferred | Rare silver planchet uniface coins bring more |
Washington Quarter | $125 – $400 | Silver-era or early clad dates | $500+ for dramatic uniface coins |
Kennedy Half Dollar | $200 – $700 | 90% silver (1964) or rare years | One 1964 uniface sold for over $1,200 |
Presidential Dollar | $175 – $500 | Early release or edge-lettering omitted | Some edge lettering errors combine with uniface strikes |
old Coins (any) | $2,000 – $30,000+ | Extremely rare | Some documented sales exceed $50,000 for uniface gold |
Additional Price Guide Entries:
Wrong Planchet / Off Metal Errors