Roller marks on coins can look very similar to weight adjustment marks. This photo diagnostic will help you to distinguish between the two, by presenting examples of both types of marks for comparison.
For a detailed explanation of roller marks and how they are caused, please see Roller Marks on a Morgan Dollar. For more information about weight adjustment marks, please see, What are Adjustment Marks on a Coin?
Keep in mind these important considerations when diagnosing roller marks and adjustment marks:
- Adjustment marks do not appear on U.S. coins after 1840.
- Roller marks will be parallel to each other; adjustment marks usually aren't.
- Both types of marks are incuse (sunken in, rather than raised up) whereas similar looking die polishing marks in the field may be parallel but raised.
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