1956 Doubled Die Reverse WDDR-004

Description

Cross-referenced as CONECA 2-R-II+VI — indicating a dual-class doubled die combining Class II and Class VI characteristics — WDDR-004 for the 1956 Proof Lincoln Wheat Cent displays strong extra thickness and separation on E PLURIBUS UNUM, both dots, OF AMERICA, both upper wheat ears, and both wheat stems. Dual-class doubled dies are uncommon because they require two distinct types of hub misalignment on the same die: Class II involves angular distortion while Class VI involves a pivoted or rotated impression, and the combination creates complex doubling that varies in direction across the die. As a proof issue, this coin was struck on specially prepared polished planchets using polished dies, producing mirror-like fields that make the doubling especially visible. On the reverse, a small die gouge in the form of a dot provides an additional attribution point. Obverse die markers are not significant. Proof Wheat Cents from 1956 fall near the end of the series, just two years before the Lincoln Memorial reverse debuted in 1959. Identification requires examining reverse lettering and wheat elements for the pronounced separation.

Attribution History

• Discovered by Delma K. Romines Cross References: CONECA: 2-R-II+VI
• CONECA: 2-R-II+VI; Wexler Variety ID: 1956 1¢ Pr WDDR-004
• Expert attribution by Wexler Team

External References