1930 Doubled Die Obverse WDDO-002

Description

Preserving a distinctive Class IV offset hub doubling on James Earle Fraser's iconic Buffalo Nickel obverse, WDDO-002 on the 1930 Philadelphia Mint issue shows northwestward spread on the upper eyelid, nostril, under the tip of the nose, under the upper lip, and the lower right side of the large feather. Class IV doubling results from an offset between successive hub impressions, producing a directional displacement that distinguishes it from the rotational or distorted patterns of other classes. Die markers on the reverse include a die chip in front of the bison's ear, providing a secondary attribution diagnostic independent of the doubling itself. No significant obverse die markers have been noted. Cross-reference: Wexler Variety ID: 1930 5¢ WDDO-002. Philadelphia Mint regular strike. The Buffalo Nickel's high-relief Native American portrait renders doubled die diagnostics with particular clarity on facial features, where the sculptural depth of Fraser's design amplifies even subtle hub misalignment into visible spread. Attributed by Wexler Team.

Attribution History

• Discovered by Brian Raines Cross References: None known
• None known; Wexler Variety ID: 1930 5¢ WDDO-002
• Expert attribution by Wexler Team

External References