1938-S Doubled Die Obverse WDDO-002

Description

Attributed by Brian A. Ribar, this second doubled die obverse documented for the 1938-S Jefferson Nickel is cataloged as WDDO-002 and represents a die pair distinct from the WDDO-001 variety attributed by Whaden Curtis. The 1938 date marks the birth of Felix Schlag's Jefferson portrait design, which won a Mint-sponsored competition and launched a series that continues in modified form today. San Francisco produced 4.1 million nickels in 1938, the lowest mintage among the three issuing facilities, and the relatively modest production contributed to the first-year S-mint nickel becoming a key date in the series. Hub misalignment during the die manufacturing process produced the doubling visible on the obverse, and each of the two known 1938-S DDO varieties exhibits its own diagnostic spread characteristics and die markers. Collectors examining first-year Jefferson Nickels for varieties should compare their findings against both WDDO-001 and WDDO-002 to ensure correct attribution, paying careful attention to the direction and magnitude of spread on the portrait and surrounding legends.

Attribution History

• Discovered by Brian A. Ribar
• Wexler Variety ID: 1938-S WDDO-002
• Expert attribution by Brian A. Ribar

External References