1939 Doubled Die Obverse WDDO-009

Description

Exhibiting both Class II distorted hub and Class V pivoted hub doubling on the IN GOD WE TRUST motto, this 1939 Philadelphia Mint Jefferson Nickel variety showcases a combination of two distinct doubling mechanisms operating simultaneously during die preparation. The dual-class attribution indicates the hub experienced both distortion and pivotal rotation between impressions, a compound misalignment that produces a more complex doubling signature than either class alone. Discovered by Brian A. Ribar and cross-referenced as Wexler Variety ID 1939 WDDO-009, this variety belongs to the Reverse of 1940 subtype of the 1939 Jefferson Nickel. Obverse die markers include a short die gouge to the right of the S of TRUST and slanted die scratches in the field below Jefferson's chin. The reverse carries die scratches to the left of the large center semicircular window and in the field above the left porch, with Type II steps identified on the Monticello design. The 1939 Philadelphia nickel with Reverse of 1940 configuration is one of the most studied early Jefferson Nickel subtypes, and nine doubled die obverses reflect the sustained research attention this transitional issue receives.

Attribution History

• Discovered by Brian A. Ribar
• Wexler Variety ID: 1939 WDDO-009
• Expert attribution by Brian A. Ribar

External References