1961 Proof Lincoln Memorial Cent - Doubled Die Obverse WDDO-013

Description

Attributed by the Wexler Team as 1961 1¢ Pr WDDO-013, this Proof doubled die obverse variety from the 1961 Lincoln Memorial Cent displays a close spread towards the center on the date and the inscription WE TRUST. The centripetal direction of the spread — inward toward the coin's center rather than outward toward the rim — reflects a Class II distorted hub doubling event in which the secondary hub impression was displaced inward relative to the first. The Proof striking process, with its multiple impressions on polished planchets using specially prepared dies, renders this inward shift particularly visible on well-preserved specimens. Obverse die markers include a short, vertical die gouge just to the right of the center of the E in WE, along with parallel die scratches running from SSW to NNE near the bottom of the center fold in the coat — diagnostics that provide reliable attribution points beyond the doubling itself. The reverse carries several die scratches running from NNW to SSE through the left base of the Memorial, the left post, and the left side of the steps, offering additional confirmation for variety specialists. No cross-references to other cataloging systems are known.

Die Markers

• Obverse: A short, vertical die gouge can be found just to the right of the center of the E in WE. Parallel die scratches run from SSW to NNE near the bottom of the center fold in the coat. Reverse: Several die scratches run from NNW to SSE through the left base of the Memorial, the left post, and the left side of the steps.

Cross References

• None known; Wexler Variety ID: 1961 1¢ Pr WDDO-013

External References