Noticed an incomplete hole or dent on several ancients now in the center

[thenickelguy]

I have seen at least 5 coins now that almost appear to have a dimple near center on both sides.

Here is one random internet example image to try to further convey my next question.

Is this just a coincidence or is there some deliberate denting going on? 

 

 

 

[thenickelguy]

I also notice a few from Ptolemaic Kingdom seem to have this issue.

Coincidence?

Maybe, I'm going to learn something new here.

Edited August 1, 2022 by thenickelguy

[ominus1]

they are made that way...:)

[Curtis JJ]

Do you mean, why do you see them on both sides or why are there dimples at all? 

Someone else may be able to give a better explanation, but... I think you are referring to "centration dimples" (or "flan production dimples"), which seem to appear regularly on Ptolemaic Bronzes as well as on certain kinds of Roman Provincial bronzes, and often appear on both sides of the coin.

I think there's only one on the reverse (maybe a little one in Philip II's ear) but it's a huge one on my Macedon, Thessalonica bronze:

I guess there is still a degree of debate about what exactly they were, but last time I read up on them, it sounded like the evidence supported them being used in lathing (polishing) the flan before striking.

https://www.forumancientcoins.com/dougsmith/pit.html
https://www.forumancientcoins.com/board/index.php?topic=38719.0
https://www.cointalk.com/threads/so-called-centration-dimples-annoy-me.310056/

Sorry, not 100% sure if that's what you're asking.

Edited August 1, 2022 by Curtis JJ

[Roman Collector]

Lathe dimples from flan preparation before striking. Very common.

[thenickelguy]

Well, that's great news and I did learn something new. I think I have a coin with this dimple in my collection. At least it isn't damage. Good to know in the future when purchasing.

Thanks all!

[shanxi]

Sometimes you can still see the circles from the surface smoothing around the dimples.