No Date Jefferson Nickel (5c) Error - Struck on Spilt Planchet

Split planchet errors are among the most dramatic and eye-catching mint errors in all of numismatics. These occur when a planchet literally splits during the striking process, typically due to internal stress or contamination in the metal. The result is a coin with the distinctive "wood grain" appearance as the metal separates and stretches under the tremendous pressure of the coining press. Jefferson nickels on split planchets are particularly scarce, as the alloy composition makes this type of failure less common than with other denominations.

This PCGS AU50 example showcases the full drama of the split planchet error. The obverse displays the characteristic striated texture running diagonally across the entire surface, completely obscuring any trace of the date - hence PCGS's "No Date" designation. The reverse shows similar dramatic striations while still maintaining enough of Monticello's architectural details to be clearly recognizable. Despite the violent nature of the error, the coin has survived in solid AU condition with no major post-mint damage, making it an excellent example of this spectacular error type.