1934 Doubled Die Obverse WDDO-003

Description

Cataloged as Wexler Variety ID 1934 1¢ WDDO-003, this 1934 Philadelphia Mint Lincoln Wheat Cent exhibits a very close spread to the east on the right side of the lower inner ear. On the obverse, several die scratches run west to east below the O and D of GOD and then curve NE to the right of the D, with additional die scratches running WNW to ESE between the E of WE and the first T of TRUST. On the reverse, a short die scratch extends SSW from the upper right inside of the O of ONE, and numerous short die scratches extend NNE from the upper right of the O of ONE. Struck in 95% copper at the Philadelphia Mint during the Great Depression, the 1934 Wheat Cent was produced when mintages were beginning to recover from their early-1930s lows. The very close eastward spread on the ear requires careful magnification to confirm, as the doubling is subtle compared to more dramatic doubled die varieties. The multiple die scratches on both sides serve as reliable secondary diagnostics for attributing WDDO-003.

Attribution History

• Discovered by James C. Moreland Cross References: None known
• None known; Wexler Variety ID: 1934 1¢ WDDO-003
• Expert attribution by Wexler Team

External References