Washington 25¢, 2003, 20% straight clip on Type 1 Planchet, 25¢, MS65 , PCGS

25¢, 2003-MS65, 20% straight clip on Type 1 Planchet, PCGS.

A technically fascinating and visually instructive Mint error. This 1974 Washington quarter was struck on a Type I blank, meaning the punched disc never passed through the upsetting mill and therefore lacks the raised proto-rim normally formed prior to striking. As a result, the coin exhibits a flatter, more squared edge profile and subtle peripheral spread consistent with a strike on an un-upset planchet.

Adding to the appeal is a dramatic 20% straight clip, created when the blanking punch overlapped the edge of the metal strip. The straight edge retains its original strip character, and the strike shows natural metal flow toward the missing section. Opposite the clip, weakness consistent with the Blakesley effect confirms its authenticity.

While the PCGS label abbreviates the attribution as “T-I Planchet,” this piece is more accurately understood as a straight clip struck on an un-upset Type I blank — a compelling glimpse into the earliest stage of planchet preparation.