1957-D Doubled Die Reverse WDDR-001

Description

Recognized as one of the stronger Washington Quarter doubled die reverses of the 1950s, the 1957-D WDDR-001 exhibits extremely strong extra thickness on USA, EPU (E PLURIBUS UNUM), QUARTER DOLLAR, and the wreath — a comprehensive spread affecting virtually all major reverse inscription and design elements. Cross-referenced as CONECA 1-R-VI, the Class VI designation indicates Distorted Hub Doubling where the secondary hub impression was affected by distortion during the transfer process, producing the pronounced extra thickness pattern visible across multiple design elements simultaneously. Obverse die markers document progressive structural failure: a die crack curving through the upper numeral 1 in the date, a die crack running across the base of George Washington's bust extending into the lower ribbon, and a large die chip located on this die crack. Reverse markers include a die crack running through IBUS in PLURIBUS and extending down the eagle's left wing below AMER in AMERICA, plus an additional die crack running down the eagle's right wing. The combination of strong reverse doubling with extensive die crack networks across both dies indicates this die pair was in active service for a substantial production run, accumulating progressive deterioration while continuing to produce doubled die specimens. The 1957-D Washington Quarter was struck at the Denver Mint in 90% silver composition (90% silver, 10% copper) weighing 6.25 grams with a diameter of 24.26 mm. John Flanagan designed the Washington Quarter obverse after Jean-Antoine Houdon's famous bust, with the heraldic eagle reverse featuring laurel and olive branches. The comprehensive nature of the reverse doubling — affecting lettering, denomination, and design elements across the entire reverse face — makes this one of the more dramatic Class VI doubled die reverses in the Washington Quarter series.

Attribution History

• Discovered by Joe Feld Cross References: CONECA: 1-R-VI
• CONECA: 1-R-VI; Wexler Variety ID: 1957-D 25¢ WDDR-001
• Expert attribution by Wexler Team

External References