1961 Doubled Die Reverse WDDR-034

Description

Attributed by Peter Beane under Wexler Variety ID 1961 WDDR-034, this Class II Distorted Hub Doubled Die Reverse on the 1961 Jefferson Nickel is notable for its late die state challenge. A nice spread toward the center shows on UNITED STATES OF AMERICA and E PLURIBUS UNUM, but the late die state (LDS) condition of this working die makes the doubling on these legends difficult to distinguish with confidence. AMERICA appears tripled at optimal angle and lighting. Doubling is present on both sides of the Monticello building. A close spread is also visible on the ELLO of MONTICELLO and on FIVE CENTS, where the upper left of the T is tripled. Two die markers confirm attribution: a diagonal die scratch between the nose and TR of TRUST on the obverse, and a die gouge appearing as a dot between the upper F of OF and the first A of AMERICA on the reverse. The reverse die gouge is the more reliable marker, sitting in moderate-relief territory that resists die wear well. On LDS examples, the gouge should be located before attempting legend doubling confirmation. Cross-reference: Wexler Variety ID 1961 WDDR-034.

Attribution History

• Discovered by Peter Beane
• Wexler Variety ID: 1961 WDDR-034
• Expert attribution by Peter Beane

External References