Penny error or just worn?

[voodoo13]

Got this 1996 as change today, and noticed at once the date was missing, as well as the LIB. They are actually there, but very faint. The rim is tapered also. Looking under a loupe there are no real scratch marks. What do you think?

 

[Ifyndit]

Looks like a greased die error. I have found dozens of halves that are missing lettering, dates, and other features.

Great find!

 

[enamel7]

Some of these coins get that way another way. I understand when they put fresh dies on they will do a test coin to assure everything is in alignment. Less pressure is applied and this can create a weak strike. I think this is the result when you see weak detail around the entire coin. Grease filled die will usually just be on one part of the coin.