1940-D Doubled Die Reverse WDDR-002

Description

Combining two distinct hub doubling classes on a single die, this 1940-D Jefferson nickel WDDR-002 exhibits Class V (pivoted hub) doubling on OF AMERICA and CENTS alongside Class II (distorted hub) doubling on UNUM. The dual-class designation is noteworthy because it indicates the die experienced two separate types of misalignment during the hubbing process: a rotational pivot that displaced one group of design elements and a distortion of the hub itself that affected another group independently. Brian A. Ribar attributed this variety with the Wexler cross-reference 1940-D WDDR-002. Obverse die markers include a die scratch positioned above the star and the digit 1 of the date, while the reverse shows a die scratch passing through the large center semicircular window of the Monticello facade and additional scratches below UN of UNITED. The 1940-D nickel had a Denver Mint production of 43.5 million pieces, a figure that reflects the prewar economy's growing momentum as defense spending ramped up in advance of America's entry into World War II. Felix Schlag's Monticello reverse had been in use for only two years when this die was produced, and the building's detailed architectural features -- columns, windows, arches, and steps -- were still being rendered with relatively fresh master hub detail. Class V doubling on OF AMERICA creates a spread that fans outward from the pivot point, producing stronger doubling farther from the axis. The concurrent Class II distortion on UNUM warps the letter shapes themselves rather than simply displacing them, creating a visually distinct diagnostic signature compared to the pivoted doubling seen on the adjacent legends.

Attribution History

• Discovered by Brian A. Ribar
• Wexler Variety ID: 1940-D WDDR-002
• Expert attribution by Brian A. Ribar

External References