1956 Doubled Die Reverse WDDR-020

Description

Attributed by Brian A. Ribar and cataloged as Wexler Variety ID 1956 WDDR-020, this Jefferson Nickel doubled die reverse belongs to the Original Design series (1938-2003). The doubling classification and specific affected design elements are documented in the Wexler files, with the WDDR-020 designation placing it among a substantial number of reverse doubled dies cataloged for the 1956 date. Die markers serve as critical attribution points for distinguishing this variety from other 1956 doubled die reverses, as multiple WDDR listings exist for this year. The Jefferson Nickel was designed by Felix Schlag, who won a public design competition in 1938. His original design featured a left-facing bust of Thomas Jefferson on the obverse and a front elevation of Monticello, Jefferson's Virginia estate, on the reverse. The 1956 issue was struck exclusively at the Philadelphia Mint (no mintmark) and the Denver Mint, in 75% copper and 25% nickel composition, weighing 5.0 grams with a diameter of 21.2 mm and a plain edge. The post-war era of the 1950s saw generally high mintages for Jefferson Nickels as the denomination circulated widely in everyday commerce. Doubled die varieties from this period resulted from the hubbing process used to create working dies — when the hub was impressed into the die blank with slightly different alignment between successive impressions, the offset created doubled design elements on every coin struck from that die. Collectors seeking this variety should examine the reverse inscriptions under magnification, using known die markers from the Wexler attribution to confirm the specific WDDR-020 die rather than confusing it with other doubled reverse listings for the same year.

Attribution History

• Discovered by John A. Wexler
• Wexler Variety ID: 1956 WDDR-020 Proof
• Expert attribution by John A. Wexler

External References