1961 Proof Lincoln Memorial Cent - Proof Doubled Die Reverse WDDR-017

Description

WDDR-017, a 1961 Proof Lincoln Memorial Cent doubled die reverse, presents a close spread towards the center on UNITED, the left Memorial base, the right side of the Memorial building, and the inscription AMERICA. The involvement of both the left base and the right side of the Memorial structure, alongside two inscriptions situated at the top and bottom of the reverse design, gives this variety a distinctive breadth of coverage that spans Frank Gasparro's architectural centerpiece from foundation to roofline. The centripetal Class II displacement on these elements indicates that the secondary hub impression was shifted uniformly inward during die manufacture, and the spread's registration on both the textual and architectural components suggests a relatively symmetrical distortion event. No significant obverse die markers have been recorded, but the reverse provides two diagnostic points: a small die gouge on the vertical bar of the E in UNITED, and a small die gouge below the N in ONE. These two gouges, situated in different inscription areas — the upper legend and the central denomination — offer collectors a reliable two-point confirmation system, with each marker independently verifiable.

Die Markers

• Obverse: None significant. Reverse: A small die gouge can be found on the vertical bar of the E in UNITED. A small die gouge can be found below the N in ONE.

Cross References

• None known; Wexler Variety ID: 1961 1¢ Pr WDDR-017

External References