Coin question???? (Starburst effect)?

Question

What is the "starburst" effect? Why does it happen?

Answer 1

As I remember from a Coin Word or Numismatic News article, the star burst effect is caused when worn dies are used, or the die is starting to really wear. The effect is lines going out like a star burst which is lines coming out of a center. It is not always the same on each coin type but is usually in the clear fields or can be seen better there. I have seen it on a few modern coins but not on older ones. Maybe it is also due to the use of high speed coining presses with the worn dies. It shows up a lot on Kennedy 1/2 dollars.

Answer 2

I've never heard of the "starburst effect"...

this might help you out: http://en.wikipedia.org/wiki/Starburst