1946-D Doubled Die Obverse WDDO-004

Description

Brian A. Ribar attributed this 1946 Denver Mint Jefferson Nickel, which presents Class II Distorted Hub Doubling with close spread visible on IN GOD WE TRUST. Class II doubling arises from distortion in the hub or its alignment during die sinking, producing displacement that varies across the die face rather than following a uniform directional shift. The 1946-D nickel holds transitional significance as the first full year of post-war Jefferson Nickel production — from mid-1942 through 1945, nickels were struck in a 56% copper, 35% silver, and 9% manganese composition to conserve nickel for military use. The return to the standard 75% copper, 25% nickel alloy in 1946 marked a restoration of pre-war manufacturing norms. Die markers include a die scratch through IB of LIBERTY and another near the rim above W of WE on the obverse, providing reliable secondary identification points. Cross-referenced as Wexler Variety ID 1946-D WDDO-004, this variety documents one of the earliest post-war hub alignment errors on the restored nickel alloy, connecting die preparation conditions to the Mint's transition back to peacetime production.

Attribution History

• Discovered by Brian A. Ribar
• Wexler Variety ID: 1946-D WDDO-004
• Expert attribution by Brian A. Ribar

External References