Scientists analyze deformed 1834 British sixpence coin found in Manchester album
Researchers examined a severely damaged 1834 silver sixpence discovered in an album in Greater Manchester to explain its unusual shape.
Physical evidence of minting anomaly
An IA STUDIO study published in npj Heritage Science analyzed the coin using scanning electron microscopy and chemical tests. The investigation found severe disruption concentrated in the central fields while the rim and edge milling remained well preserved. Three-dimensional measurements identified steep-sided troughs, raised shoulders, and overlapping displacement structures on the damaged surface.
Cause of deformation identified
Combined findings from chemical, microscopic, and topographic data point to severe localized deformation involving repeated high-pressure loading. This process occurred under at least partial lateral constraint during the minting stage. The study concludes these physical signs are most consistent with an unusual anomaly rather than simple wear.
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