1955 Proof Lincoln Wheat Cent - Doubled Die Obverse WDDO-005

Description

Among the doubled die obverse varieties for the 1955 Proof Lincoln Wheat Cent, WDDO-005 shows a close counterclockwise spread on the letters of IN GOD WE TRUST and slight doubling on the LIB of LIBERTY. The Wexler Variety ID is 1955 1c Pr WDDO-005. This die also carries a paired reverse doubled die listed as 1955 1c Pr WDDR-002, which displays a close spread toward the center on the left wheat ear and stalk, E PLURIBUS UNUM, and both motto dots. Two obverse die stages are known: in Stage A a die chip fills the upper R in TRUST; in Stage B that chip migrates to the upper S in TRUST, providing a reliable sequential marker. The reverse likewise shows stage progression, with a small die gouge appearing to the right of the upper B in PLURIBUS in Stage B only. Proof Lincoln cents of this era were struck on specially prepared planchets with mirror fields and frosted devices, making doubling on the legends especially visible under oblique lighting. The combination of obverse and reverse doubling on the same proof die pair makes WDDO-005 a notable dual-variety find for mid-twentieth century proof Lincoln specialists.

Cross References

• Wexler Variety ID: 1955 1¢ Pr WDDO-005

External References