1954-S Repunched Mintmark WRPM-009

Description

Attributed by the Wexler Team as 1954-S 5-cent WRPM-009, this Jefferson Nickel displays an S/S Tilted repunched mintmark, where the secondary S mintmark impression was applied at an angle rotated from the primary S position. The most compelling diagnostic feature is the late die state evidence: the obverse is classified as VLDS (Very Late Die State) with a northwest-to-southeast die crack running through the hair, a die crack across the base of the bust, and north-to-south die scratches throughout the obverse including a particularly strong north-to-south die scratch below the LI in LIBERTY. The reverse similarly shows extensive die wear with east-to-west die scratches throughout the upper reverse, a strong east-to-west die scratch left of the M in MONTICELLO, thin east-to-west die scratches through CENTS, and an east-to-west die scratch between the F in OF and the first A in AMERICA. No cross-references to CONECA or Cherrypickers have been established. The 1954-S Jefferson Nickel was struck at the San Francisco Mint in 75% copper and 25% nickel, weighing 5.0 grams with a diameter of 21.21 mm. The extensive directional die scratching and multiple die cracks documented on this variety indicate a working die that saw prolonged service, accumulating damage progressively until it was finally removed from production. The tilted repunched mintmark predates all of these wear-related markers, as the S/S was created during die preparation before the die entered service in the coining press.

Attribution History

• Discovered by Brian Ribar Cross References: None known
• None known; Wexler Variety ID: 1954-S 5¢ WRPM-009
• Expert attribution by Wexler Team

External References