1953 Doubled Die Reverse WDDR-001

Description

Designated as the principal doubled die reverse for the 1953 Lincoln Wheat Cent proof issue, WDDR-001 exhibits a Class II spread toward the center visible on EPU and the dots of the reverse design, with the spread decreasing from left to right — a characteristic pattern of distorted hub doubling. Additional doubling appears on the left wheat ear and stem, extending the variety's diagnostic scope beyond the motto area. Cataloged by the Wexler Team with the cross-reference Wexler Variety ID 1953 1-cent Pr WDDR-001, the "Pr" designation confirms this as a proof variety. The reverse die markers include a short vertical die gouge at the rim above the second U in PLURIBUS, while no significant obverse markers are noted. Value references indicate approximate prices of $25 in PR60, $35 in PR63, and $50 in PR65, providing collectors with market guidance for this proof doubled die. The 1953 proof Lincoln Cent was produced at the Philadelphia Mint during an era when proof sets were available by special order, and proof dies received the polished surfaces and careful preparation that distinguish proof production from business strike operations. The Class II spread toward center with diminishing intensity from left to right indicates the hub tilted slightly during a secondary impression, creating doubling that is strongest on the left side of the reverse and attenuates rightward. Proof doubled dies are particularly prized because the mirror fields and frosted design elements of proof coins make doubling more visually prominent than comparable doubling would appear on matte-finish business strikes.

Attribution History

• Discovered by Robert Pelletier Cross References: None known Values: PR60 = $25, PR63 = $35, PR65 = $50
• None known Values: PR60 = $25, PR63 = $35, PR65 = $50; Wexler Variety ID: 1953 1¢ Pr WDDR-001
• Expert attribution by Wexler Team

External References