1943-S Doubled Die Obverse WDDO-003

Description

Cataloged by the Wexler Team as 1943-S 1¢ WDDO-003 and extensively cross-referenced as CONECA 2-O-VI and Coppercoins 1943S-1DO-003, this wartime Lincoln Wheat Cent exhibits a multi-zone doubling pattern with varying intensity across the obverse. Medium thickness doubling is visible on the date and LIBERTY, while lighter thickness affects IN GOD WE TRUST — a graduated pattern where the doubling magnitude decreases across different inscription groups based on their geometric relationship to the hub displacement vector during the die-making process. The CONECA Class VI designation indicates Distorted Hub Doubling, where distortion in the working hub or die during the hubbing process produced the characteristic extra thickness rather than a clean directional spread. Obverse die markers include die dots positioned east of the R and north of the U in TRUST, a die gouge to the right of the top of the nose, and a linear die gouge in front of the throat just above the tie — multiple identification points concentrated in the portrait and motto areas. Reverse markers show a die dot centrally located north of the N and U of UNUM and another outside the northeast corner of the N of CENT. The 1943-S Lincoln Cent holds special historical significance as a wartime issue struck in zinc-coated steel rather than the standard bronze composition, authorized to conserve copper for military needs. Weighing approximately 2.70 grams with a 19.05 mm diameter, the steel cent was struck at the San Francisco Mint. Victor David Brenner's obverse portrait and the wheat ears reverse were both rendered on the unfamiliar steel planchets, which created unique striking characteristics different from the bronze and later zinc-core compositions. The graduated doubling pattern across date, LIBERTY, and IGWT provides a systematic attribution approach where collectors can verify each zone independently.

Attribution History

• Discovered by Jennifer Casazza Cross References: CONECA: 2-O-VI; Coppercoins: 1943S-1DO-003
• CONECA: 2-O-VI; Coppercoins: 1943S-1DO-003; Wexler Variety ID: 1943-S 1¢ WDDO-003
• Expert attribution by Wexler Team

External References