1960 Doubled Die Reverse WDDR-008

Description

Eighth Wexler-cataloged doubled die reverse for the 1960 Proof Franklin Half Dollar, WDDR-008 carries the notable distinction of sharing its obverse die with a separately cataloged doubled die obverse — the Wexler 1960 50c Pr WDDO-011, which shows a close spread towards the center on LIBERTY, IN GOD WE TRUST, and the date. This die marriage pairing means that specimens from this die pair display doubled die characteristics on both sides of the coin, a relatively uncommon occurrence that significantly enhances the variety's appeal among collectors. The reverse doubling itself appears on the reverse, with die pitting on the top of the C and the right side of the second A in AMERICA serving as die markers for attribution. The 1960 Proof Franklin Half Dollar was struck at the Philadelphia Mint on 90% silver planchets during the penultimate year of Franklin Half Dollar production — only the 1963 proof would follow before John F. Kennedy's assassination prompted the rapid introduction of the Kennedy Half Dollar design in 1964. John R. Sinnock's Franklin Half Dollar design, featuring Benjamin Franklin's portrait and the Liberty Bell, had been in production since 1948. Cross-referenced with no known alternate designations beyond its Wexler ID of 1960 50c Pr WDDR-008, this variety's pairing with WDDO-011 on the obverse creates a dual-variety specimen that variety collectors prize for its comprehensive doubling across both coin faces.

Attribution History

• Discovered by Brian Ribar Cross References: None known
• None known; Wexler Variety ID: 1960 50¢ Pr WDDR-008
• Expert attribution by Wexler Team

External References