1957 Doubled Die Obverse WDDO-005

Description

Personally attributed by John A. Wexler — one of the foremost die variety researchers in American numismatics — this 1957 proof Jefferson Nickel exhibits very close Class II spread on LIBERTY, the star, and the date. Class II distorted hub doubling produces displacement that can be extremely tight, requiring high magnification to resolve the separation between primary and secondary impressions. The die carries a distinctive diagnostic: a slanted die scratch on Jefferson's cheek, providing an immediately verifiable marker once located under magnification. On the reverse, a curvy die gouge to the left of the small left window on Monticello completes the die marker profile. Attributed under Wexler Variety ID 1957 WDDO-005 Proof, the proof strike ensures the close Class II spread is preserved with maximum sharpness on these carefully struck coins. The 1957 proof Jefferson Nickel was produced at Philadelphia during the traditional proof program, and five documented DDOs for this date reflects the systematic examination proof coins receive from variety specialists. The cheek scratch is particularly useful for quick screening before confirming the subtle Class II doubling.

Attribution History

• Discovered by John A. Wexler
• Wexler Variety ID: 1957 WDDO-005 Proof
• Expert attribution by John A. Wexler

External References