For the 1881 penny there are two die varieties consisting of a single obverse die paired with two reverse dies.
The difference is in the placement of the date.
1881
Penny |
| Obverse
| Reverse |
|
- Obverse 1:
- There is only die. The top left ray of the star is broken.
- This broken ray can also be seen on the 1877 Proof only Royal Mint issue and the 1888 issue.
- Reverse A:
- The date is a lower position with respect to the N.
- Reverse B:
- The date is a higher position with respect to the N.
|
Obverse Dies: The Star
|
Broken Ray
|
 |
|
Reverse Dies: The Date
|
Low Date |
 |
High Date |
 |