Is this a "grease strike" error or just dirt?Seeing missing letters or a blurry date? Don’t clean it! You might have a cool error, not just grime.Happens when grease or debris builds up on a coin die. It prevents metal from flowing into that part of the design. The result? Missing or faint features that are smooth to the touch, like a weak date or no mint mark. The coin surface isn’t damaged; it’s just… not there.Just Dirt/Crud: Will feel gritty, sit on top of the design, and you might see it flaking at the edges. It obscures details but doesn’t make them fundamentally absent.The Rule: If it’s smooth, it’s likely an error. If it’s bumpy or gunk-like, it’s probably environmental gunk. When in doubt, scan a clear photo with Coin ID Scanner. Our database includes major error varieties to help you solve the mystery!
