1946 Doubled Die Reverse DDR-002

Description

Classified at the extreme intensity level — the strongest designation in the doubled die grading scale — DDR-002 on the 1946 Jefferson Nickel delivers unmistakable extra thickness across three major reverse text areas: E PLURIBUS UNUM, UNITED STATES OF AMERICA, and FIVE CENTS. Die markers UVC-818 and DMR-004 confirm this working die. The extreme classification means the hub displacement produced thickening so pronounced that it is visible to the unaided eye or at minimal magnification, placing this variety among the most dramatic reverse doubled dies in the Jefferson Nickel series. The simultaneous involvement of three separate inscription groups — the motto arching above Monticello, the country designation flanking the building, and the denomination below — indicates a hub misalignment broad enough to affect the entire reverse die face, with the extra thickness manifesting as visibly heavier letter strokes throughout all three text zones. The 1946 Philadelphia issue holds particular historical significance as the first post-war Jefferson Nickel, marking the return to the standard copper-nickel composition (75% copper, 25% nickel) after four years of wartime silver alloy production (1942-1945). With the war over, mintmarks returned to their traditional position on the reverse near Monticello's base rather than the large mintmark above the dome used on wartime issues. Felix Schlag's Monticello reverse design positions these three text groups at distinct vertical levels, and the extreme extra thickness across all three creates a coin whose reverse lettering appears noticeably bolder than a normal specimen. Examination at even 3x to 5x magnification readily confirms the extreme thickening on all affected inscriptions.

Die Markers

• UVC-818; DMR-004

External References