1923 Doubled Die Obverse DDO-001

Description

Strong extra thickness on the date and LIBERTY defines this first documented doubled die obverse for the 1923 Buffalo Nickel, tracked by VarietyVista under die markers UVC-237 and DMR-002. The "strong extra thickness" classification indicates that the doubling is clearly visible under moderate magnification, with the date numerals and LIBERTY inscription displaying noticeably thickened character strokes where the secondary hub impression overlaps the primary design. Stage A shows early die state unconfirmed, Stage B shows both obverse and reverse in middle die state (MDS), and Stage C shows late die state unconfirmed, meaning confirmed specimens exist only in middle die state so far. James Earle Fraser's Buffalo Nickel design, with its Native American portrait on the obverse and standing bison on the reverse, was in its second decade of production in 1923. Philadelphia struck approximately 35.7 million Buffalo Nickels that year, a moderate output during the World War I aftermath period. As DDO-001, this is the primary doubled die obverse for the 1923 date, establishing the benchmark attribution. The strong doubling on both the date and LIBERTY — two of the most examined areas on any coin — makes this variety relatively easy to identify once collectors know what to look for, though the Buffalo Nickel's notorious tendency to wear quickly means high-grade examples showing clear doubling command significant premiums.

Die Markers

• UVC-237
• DMR-002
• Stage A:
• EDS (unconfirmed)
• Stage B:
• Obverse and Reverse are MDS
• Stage C:
• LDS (unconfirmed)

Attribution History

• Discovered by Ron Pope
• Expert attribution by VarietyVista

External References