1961-D Repunched Mintmark RPM-003

Description

Tracked by VarietyVista under internal code UVC-545 and die marriage reference DMR-004, this 1961-D Jefferson Nickel exhibits a D/D/D South, Serifs designation — indicating three distinct D mintmark punch impressions are visible, with the extra impressions positioned to the south (below) the final D. The triple-punch characteristic (D/D/D) distinguishes this variety from the more common double-punch RPMs because it documents three separate hand-punching attempts on the same working die, each leaving its own impression in the die steel. The "Serifs" notation indicates the secondary and tertiary D impressions are most clearly visible at the serif portions of the letter, where the overlapping punch edges create distinct separation lines at the D's terminals. Die stage documentation records three states: Stage A where both reverse and obverse are at early die state, Stage B at mid-die-state (unconfirmed), and Stage C at late die state (unconfirmed). The confirmed EDS for both dies in Stage A establishes the condition in which the triple-punched mintmark shows maximum clarity before die wear softens the overlapping letter forms. The Jefferson Nickel was designed by Felix Schlag and struck at the Denver Mint in 1961, composed of 75% copper and 25% nickel at 5.00 grams with a 21.21 mm diameter. Triple-punched mintmarks represent a higher degree of punching difficulty than standard double-punches, as they document at least two corrective attempts following the initial misplaced impression. The EDS specimens from Stage A are particularly desirable for collectors seeking the fullest expression of the triple-punch feature, as the fine serif separation details are most vulnerable to erosion from progressive die wear.

Die Markers

• UVC-545
• DMR-004
• Stage A:
• Reverse and Obverse are EDS
• Stage B:
• MDS (unconfirmed)
• Stage C:
• LDS (unconfirmed)

Attribution History

• Discovered by George Schaetzle
• Expert attribution by VarietyVista

External References