1989 & 1990 Two Pence coins.

[King Kenny]

I know that the bronze decimal coinage does not thrill most collectors, but I have a liking towards them. Whist sorting my collection of two pence coins I noticed an anomaly.
The ostrich feathers on the reverse side usually have a distinct quill running down the centre of each feather. I have noticed that on some of the 1989 and 1990 coins the quill is missing and the elements of the feather just blend into each other. Further, the 1990 coins with a quill also has a longer 'P' in PENNY. According to the records the longer 'P' was not introduced until 1993.
I have not seen this mentioned in any of the articles that I have studied. I wonder if I have missed something or has anyone else has noticed this anomaly.

Both photos show a 1990 two pence coin. The first is a short 'P' no quill, and the second is a long 'P' with quills.

[Chris Perkins]

Very distinct differences. Those are both proofs by the looks of it? 

[King Kenny]

Yes they are proofs. I don't know if that makes a difference. I have not seen this type of feather in any of the other years.

[Coinery]

Brilliant spot, significant!