I should already know

[lucky2]

Searching coin for as long as I have this question is probably the dumbest I have ever asked. Anyway. The area on a Lincoln Memorial Cent between the columns. Top and bottom, right and left. First why are some columns doubled and some not? Or at least appear wider. Next, why can I see an extra step at the bottom when viewing some coins right side up but when turning the coin around and viewing from the top it dissapears. Next, what are the ridges at the top? Why do they change depending on the direction ov view? Does anybody understand what I am asking?

[coppercoins]

Umm...part of it.

Some of the columns are "doubled" because those are the artistic effect of perspective placed on the coin. What you are seeing are the columns around the corner of the building going back along the sides. This has been a part of the design since 1959. It is more visible with certain re-engravings than others.

The step lines disappearing are probably an effect of your lighting. You should probably soften your lighting some and the steps will be more visible from different directions. Also using lighting from ONE direction rather than multiple directions will help. This is one of the many problems with using ring lights..the light comes from too many different directions and causes doubling and problems with visibility of minor details.

Ridges at the top of what?

[lucky2]

Chuck
I am only useing one light source (now) a 40 watt bulb. The ridges ta the top and between the columns~lucky2

[Bob P]

Hi Robert....I am having a hard time understanding what ridges you are talking about also. The only ridges I know are on Ruffles Potato Chips (Ya know...Ruffles have ridges?) I know bad joke!
Anyway, I am thinking you are talking about the horizontal line at the very top in the bays of the memorial, between the columns. In that case, it is the interior roof line where the columns at the back of the memorial would be sitting under. Another design element, not many people realize is there until they closely examine a that design in depth.

[lucky2]

Das Dem Bob. That is just what I am talking about. I see that area smooth all the way to the top, I see it with one line, 2 lines and as many as 4 lines. Some columns show these and some do not and there seems to be no consistancy to it. Does it mean anything or is it just there?~Thanks lucky2

[Bob P]

I believe it is just the pressure of the strike and/or the wear on the die Robert. I know exactly what you are talking about too, as I have noticed that at times. You will also note that those extra columns you referred to earlier are almost non-existant on some coins. It is nothing to be concerned about unless you see doubling of those images which may signify a class 4 doubling.