1948 Doubled Die Obverse DDO-001

Description

As the primary doubled die obverse for the inaugural year of the Franklin Half Dollar series, DDO-001 on the 1948 Philadelphia issue holds special significance for variety collectors. Very light spread is visible on LIBERTY and IN GOD — the opening words of the motto IN GOD WE TRUST — on John R. Sinnock's obverse design featuring Benjamin Franklin's portrait. What makes this variety particularly noteworthy is that the reverse die has been identified as DDR-002, meaning this coin represents a dual doubled die — both the obverse and reverse carry hub doubling from their respective die manufacture. Dual doubled dies are uncommon because they require two separate dies, each independently flawed during hubbing, to be paired together in a press. Hugh T. Campbell reported this variety. The 1948 half dollar was the first year Sinnock's design entered production, struck in 90% silver at 12.5 grams, and launching the series that would continue through 1963. Collectors examining this coin should inspect both sides: LIBERTY and IN GOD on the obverse, and the reverse elements documented under DDR-002.

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