1930 Doubled Die Obverse WDDO-001

Description

One of the most extensively cross-referenced Buffalo nickel varieties, the 1930 WDDO-001 is a Class IV (Offset Hub) doubled die obverse showing spread to the northwest on the date, eyelid, nostril, both feathers, and the letters of LIBERTY. Class IV offset doubling occurs when the hub is shifted laterally during hubbing, producing a directional displacement across the entire die surface. The coin is composed of 75% copper and 25% nickel, weighing 5.0 grams with a 21.2 mm diameter. An obverse die crack runs from the rim at approximately the 10 o'clock position through the upper back of the Native American head and back to the rim at 12 o'clock, providing a strong die marker. No significant reverse markers have been noted. This variety carries an impressive array of cross-references: CONECA 1-O-IV, Cherrypickers' Guide FS-05-1930-101 (017), and Breen #2639, along with its primary designation as Wexler Variety ID 1930 5c WDDO-001. The Cherrypickers' Guide listing under the FS (Fivaz-Stanton) numbering system confirms its recognition as a major variety. Cataloged by the Wexler Team, this variety belongs to the Buffalo Nickels 1913-1938 series, featuring James Earle Fraser's iconic Native American profile on the obverse and standing bison on the reverse. The Depression-era 1930 nickel had a Philadelphia mintage of over 22.8 million, but the strong Class IV doubling across multiple facial features and LIBERTY makes authenticated examples significant numismatic finds.

Attribution History

• Discovered by Ron Pope Cross References: CONECA: 1-O-IV, Cherrypickers: FS-05-1930-101 (017), Breen: #2639
• CONECA: 1-O-IV, Cherrypickers: FS-05-1930-101 (017), Breen: #2639; Wexler Variety ID: 1930 5¢ WDDO-001
• Expert attribution by Wexler Team

External References