I'm getting older and short of viewing the board through a magnifying glass I failed to notice the pin 1 mark. My pin 1 marker does not appear to be where you describe BUT it is in deed pins 25/26 which are joined together. As to seeing these pins joined via the copper on the PCB all I can say is your eyes are a lot better than mine.
However, it is reassuring to know this is deliberate so thank you. I am reassured.