1959 Doubled Die Reverse WDDR-009

Description

Cataloged by the Wexler Team as WDDR-009 on the 1959 Lincoln Memorial Cent proof and cross-referenced as CONECA 2-R-II+VI, this doubled die reverse exhibits both Class II and Class VI doubling simultaneously — extra thickness combined with a spread towards the center on the letters of USA, EPU, ONE CENT, the designer's initials, and both sides of the lower Memorial building. The dual-class designation (II+VI) indicates a compound doubling event where distorted hub geometry (Class II) combined with die metal expansion (Class VI) to produce both directional spread and uniform thickening on different design elements. No significant obverse die markers were noted. Reverse markers include a die gouge dot on the lower left E of AMERICA, a die scratch running southwest from the center left of the R of AMERICA, and die gouges extending from the rim above the second A and upper left C of AMERICA. As a proof issue struck at the Philadelphia Mint, this 1959 cent was produced on polished planchets with mirror-finish dies, and its status as the first year of the Lincoln Memorial reverse — designed by Frank Gasparro — adds historical significance. The 1959 proof was struck in 95% copper and 5% tin-and-zinc, weighing 3.11 grams with a 19.05 mm diameter. The compound Class II+VI doubling classification is relatively uncommon, as it requires two distinct mechanical anomalies to coincide in a single hubbing sequence. The proof surface finish enhances the visibility of both the directional spread and the thickness increases, making this variety more visually dramatic on proof specimens than equivalent doubling would appear on business strikes.

Attribution History

• Discovered by David Bigelow Cross References: CONECA: 2-R-II+VI
• CONECA: 2-R-II+VI; Wexler Variety ID: 1959 1¢ Pr WDDR-009
• Expert attribution by Wexler Team

External References