1939 Doubled Die Reverse WDDR-010

Description

Classified as Class II distorted hub doubling, WDDR-010 for the 1939 Jefferson Nickel shows close doubling on E PLURIBUS UNUM — the motto that runs along the upper reverse of Felix Schlag's original Monticello design. Class II doubling results from the hub being slightly distorted or warped during the hubbing process, producing a spread pattern distinct from the lateral shifts of Class I or the rotational patterns of other classes. Die markers on the obverse include a die scratch below LI of LIBERTY near the back of Jefferson's head, while the reverse shows a slanted die scratch across the lower portion of the first U of PLURIBUS and another slanted die scratch above the small left window of Monticello, along with Type I steps — the five-step variety that Jefferson Nickel collectors prize. The 1939 Jefferson Nickel is the second year of the series, following the type's 1938 debut, and early-year die varieties carry particular interest because they document the production learning curve for a new design. Schlag's Monticello reverse, with its architectural detail including the famous steps, columns, and windows, provides numerous reference points where doubling can be measured and classified, making the Jefferson Nickel series a productive field for doubled die research.

Die Markers

• Obverse: Die scratch below LI of LIBERTY near the back of Jefferson's head.
• Reverse: Slanted die scratch across lower portion of first U of PLURIBUS; slanted die scratch above small left window.  Type I steps.

External References