1955-D Doubled Die Reverse WDDR-005

Description

Fifth Wexler-cataloged doubled die reverse for the 1955 Denver Mint Jefferson Nickel, WDDR-005 presents Class II (Distorted Hub Doubling) with very close spread on AMERICA — the final word of the UNITED STATES OF AMERICA inscription on the reverse. The "very close" spread characterization indicates the doubling is subtle, with minimal displacement between the primary and secondary hub impressions, requiring careful examination under magnification to confirm. Die markers include a series of many die gouges at Jefferson's hairline at his temple on the obverse, providing a distinctive cluster of diagnostics that should be readily identifiable. The reverse carries slanted die scratches above the right corner of Monticello's roof as an additional attribution point. This die pair is also cross-referenced as WOMM-010, indicating the obverse die is independently listed as an over mintmark variety — another instance of a dual-variety die pairing where both the obverse and reverse carry separate variety designations. Submitted by John A. Wexler and carrying the designation 1955-D WDDR-005, this variety was struck at the Denver Mint during a year that carries oversized significance in Lincoln Cent collecting due to the famous 1955 Doubled Die Obverse cent, though this Jefferson Nickel variety is entirely independent of that celebrated cent error. The 1955-D Jefferson Nickel was produced on the standard 75% copper, 25% nickel composition, the prewar alloy having been restored after the conclusion of wartime silver nickel production in 1945. The WOMM-010 cross-reference makes specimens from this die pair particularly desirable to collectors pursuing comprehensive die marriage documentation.

Attribution History

• Discovered by John A. Wexler
• WOMM-010; Wexler Variety ID: 1955-D WDDR-005
• Expert attribution by John A. Wexler

External References