1944-S Doubled Die Reverse WDDR-002

Description

Second cataloged doubled die reverse for the 1944-S Jefferson Nickel in the Wexler system, this wartime silver alloy variety exhibits Class II Distorted Hub Doubling showing close doubling on E PLURIBUS UNUM. Class II doubling results from hub distortion between successive die impressions, producing extra thickness on affected elements rather than cleanly separated secondary images. Die markers include a die gouge to the upper right of the R in PLURIBUS and die scratches to the lower right of the long left window on the reverse, with no significant obverse markers noted. Wexler Variety ID: 1944-S WDDR-002. The 1944-S Jefferson Nickel belongs to the wartime silver alloy series (1942-1945), struck on planchets containing 35% silver, 56% copper, and 9% manganese to conserve nickel for military use. These wartime issues carry a large S mintmark above Monticello's dome on the reverse — a distinctive placement used only during the silver alloy years to distinguish them from standard-composition coins. San Francisco Mint, 5.00 grams. The wartime composition creates a visually distinctive coin with a slightly different color and luster than standard nickel-composition issues, and die varieties on these silver-content nickels attract collectors who pursue both variety attribution and composition-based specialization.

Attribution History

• Discovered by Brian A. Ribar
• Wexler Variety ID: 1944-S WDDR-002
• Expert attribution by Brian A. Ribar

External References