1939-D Doubled Die Obverse DDO-002

Description

Cataloged as UVC-0104, DMR-003, this 1939 Denver Mint Washington Quarter shows light spread on the lower letters of RTY of LIBERTY. Struck in 90% silver (0.1808 oz ASW), the 1939-D had a comparatively modest mintage, making die varieties from this date appealing to collectors. Three die stages are documented: Stage A in Early Die State (unconfirmed); Stage B in Mid Die State, identified by a light die crack down the eagle's right wing; and Stage C in Late Die State, where the crack extends to the rim below the wing tip. The progressive cracking through the eagle's wing provides a clear timeline of die deterioration and aids in determining which stage a given specimen represents. John Flanagan's Washington Quarter design, introduced in 1932, featured the familiar eagle reverse that would remain in use through 1998. DDO-002 requires careful examination of the lower portions of LIBERTY, where the light spread is most evident on the R, T, and Y. The die crack progression from wing to rim across Stages B and C serves as an invaluable secondary diagnostic for confirming this variety.

Die Markers

• UVC-0104
• DMR-003
• Stage A:
• EDS (unconfirmed)
• Stage B:
• Obverse is MDS
• Light die crack down eagle's Right wing – MDS
• Stage C:
• Obverse is LDS
• Die crack extends to rim below wing tip – LDS

Attribution History

• Discovered by Lee Hiemke
• Expert attribution by VarietyVista

External References