Off-Center Strike Errors

Various • Various • Any

About This Coin

Off-center errors occur when a coin blank (planchet) is not properly positioned in the press, resulting in part of the design missing. The more dramatic the offset and the more date visible, the more valuable the error.

Specifications

Composition

Varies by coin type

Weight

Same as normal coins

Diameter

Same as normal coins

Edge

May show unstruck blank area

Designer

Varies

Mintage

Varies - errors are rare

Estimated Values by Condition

Condition	Estimated Value
Poor (P)	$5-25 (minor off-center)
Good (G)	$25-75 (10-25% off-center)
Fine (F)	$75-200 (25-50% off-center)
Very Fine (VF)	$200-500 (50%+ off-center)
Extremely Fine (EF/XF)	$500-2,000 (dramatic off-center)
Uncirculated (MS)	$2,000-10,000+ (90%+ off-center, rare dates)

* Values are estimates based on market data and may vary significantly based on specific condition, mint mark, and market demand.

Identification Tips

Look for partial blank areas where the design is completely missing. The date must be visible for premium value. Measure the percentage off-center - 50% or more is dramatic and valuable. Check that both sides are equally off-center (in the same direction). Coins on valuable or rare base coins command higher premiums.

Historical Context

Off-center errors occur during the minting process when the planchet is not properly seated in the collar die. Quality control has improved over decades, making modern off-center errors increasingly rare. Older errors, especially on silver coins or rare dates, are highly collectible. The error shows part of the manufacturing process, making it attractive to error coin collectors.

Notable Varieties

5-10% off-center (minor)
25-50% off-center (moderate)
50-90% off-center (dramatic)
Broadstrike (no collar)
Multiple strike errors

Frequently Asked Questions

What makes an off-center error valuable?

Three factors: (1) Percentage off-center - more dramatic = more valuable, (2) Date visibility - the date must be visible for premium value, (3) Rarity of the base coin - errors on valuable or scarce coins are worth much more than errors on common cents.

Are off-center errors rare?

Modern off-center errors are quite rare due to improved quality control. Older errors (pre-1970s) are more common. Dramatic off-center strikes (70%+ off) are significantly rarer and more valuable than minor ones (5-15% off).