1957-D Doubled Die Reverse WDDR-001

Description

Primary doubled die reverse for the 1957-D Jefferson Nickel, this WDDR-001 designation identifies the first-cataloged DDR for a Denver Mint issue from the mid-century era when nickel production was split between Philadelphia and Denver facilities. A close Class II (Distorted Hub Doubling) spread shows on UNUM and AMERICA, targeting specific portions of the reverse legends where the hub distortion manifested most visibly. Die markers are numerous and distinctive: a die scratch above the first T of TRUST on the obverse, and on the reverse die scratches to the lower left of the O of OF, a die gouge through the first O of MONTICELLO, and two slanted die scratches above the right porch of Monticello. Attributed by Brian A. Ribar under Wexler Variety ID: 1957-D WDDR-001, the primary DDR status gives this variety particular significance for collectors building type sets of Jefferson Nickel doubled dies organized by date and mintmark. Denver struck approximately 136.8 million nickels in 1957, a substantial figure that required significant die consumption over the production run. Felix Schlag's Monticello reverse had been in service for nearly twenty years by 1957, and the architectural precision of the building's facade — columns, portico, windows, and dome — continued to serve as an excellent substrate for revealing Class II distortion effects where design elements appear warped rather than cleanly displaced.

Attribution History

• Discovered by Brian A. Ribar
• Wexler Variety ID: 1957-D WDDR-001
• Expert attribution by Brian A. Ribar

External References