1946 (D) Lincoln Wheat Cent - Doubled Die Obverse WDDO-006

Description

The distinction between true hub doubling and machine doubling is fundamental to variety attribution and commands different levels of collector interest. Hub doubling — the mechanism responsible for DDO varieties — is created during die manufacture and appears as rounded, three-dimensional displacement of design elements that precisely mirrors the original contours. Machine doubling, by contrast, results from die bounce or loose die fit during the striking process and produces flat, shelf-like distortion without the rounded profile of genuine hub displacement. WDDO-006 from the 1946-D Lincoln Wheat Cent is a confirmed hub doubled die, the sixth such obverse variety cataloged for Denver's first postwar cent issue. These cents represent the return of peacetime coinage production, though bronze did not return until 1947. The 1946-D's substantial mintage provides an accessible and affordable base for variety hunting. Cataloged under Wexler Variety ID 1946-D 1¢ WDDO-006.

Cross References

• Wexler Variety ID: 1946-D 1¢ WDDO-006

External References