1940 Doubled Die Obverse WDDO-004

Description

A proof-only issue struck with the transitional Reverse of 1938 design, the 1940 Jefferson Nickel WDDO-004 presents very close Class II doubling on IN GOD WE TRUST. The Reverse of 1938 detail is significant — early Jefferson nickels used a reverse with slightly different Monticello steps than the later standard, making this variety doubly notable as both a doubled die and a transitional design pairing. Examination was confirmed on an NGC Proof 65 specimen. Obverse die markers include a series of die scratches on Jefferson's shoulder and two small die dots in the hair at the upper right of the forehead. The reverse shows a series of horizontal die scratches through the right long window and curving die scratches at the lower right of the large center semicircular window. Proof Jefferson nickels from 1940 saw limited production, and this convergence of hub doubling with the earlier reverse type creates a variety of particular interest to both proof and transitional design collectors.

Die Markers

• Obverse: Series of die scratches on Jefferson's shoulder; two small die dots in his hair to upper right of forehead.
• Reverse: Series of horizontal die scratches through right long window; series of curving die scratches to lower right of large center semicircular window.

External References