1938 Doubled Die Reverse WDDR-013

Description

Close Class II distorted hub doubling on E PLURIBUS UNUM, paired with distinctive die markers on both sides, characterizes this thirteenth Wexler-cataloged doubled die reverse for the debut-year 1938 Jefferson Nickel. The obverse carries a die dot on Jefferson's ribbon — a small raised spot resulting from a corresponding pit in the die face — while the reverse shows a die scratch above the second U of PLURIBUS and another scratch in the lower right corner of the long right window of Monticello. Cross-referenced as Wexler Variety ID 1938 WDDR-013, this variety was documented by Brian A. Ribar. Class II doubling concentrating on E PLURIBUS UNUM reflects the motto's position within the distortion field of the hub — areas at certain distances from the center of the die are more affected by radial distortion than others. Thirteen documented reverse doubled dies for the first year of the Jefferson Nickel series demonstrates extraordinary variety depth for an inaugural date. The 1938 nickel introduced Felix Schlag's Monticello reverse, which would become one of the most enduring reverse designs in American coinage — remaining in use (with modifications) for the standard nickel through the present day, interrupted only by the 2004-2005 Westward Journey series. Schlag's rendering of Jefferson's Virginia home features windows, columns, and architectural details that serve as excellent diagnostic targets for hub doubling. Brian A. Ribar's contributions to 1938 Jefferson Nickel variety documentation have been instrumental in establishing the foundational catalog for this date.

Attribution History

• Discovered by Brian A. Ribar
• Wexler Variety ID: 1938 WDDR-013
• Expert attribution by Brian A. Ribar

External References