1961 Proof Lincoln Memorial Cent - Proof Doubled Die Reverse WDDR-024

Description

WDDR-024 carries a complex dual-class doubling event across virtually the entire reverse design. The primary effect is a Class II tripled spread towards the center on ONE CENT, the designer's initials FG, and the left and right Memorial bases — a tripled image indicating three distinct hub impressions that progressively shifted inward. Overlaid on this tripling is a doubled spread towards the center on USA, with slight involvement of E PLURIBUS UNUM and both cornices of the Memorial building. The simultaneous presence of tripling on some elements and doubling on others reveals a multi-stage die manufacturing sequence in which the hub was impressed at least three times with incremental centripetal displacement. This die is further distinguished by an unusually rich constellation of die markers on both faces. On the obverse, a die gouge sits between the bottoms of the I and N in IN, and two parallel die scratches run from northwest to southeast through the hair at the top of the head. The reverse markers are even more numerous: a short vertical die scratch between the tops of the U and N of UNITED, a die gouge south of the E in UNITED, a short vertical die gouge to the right of the lower E in ONE, a die gouge dot at the top of the third Memorial bay, a die scratch running from southwest to northeast at the top of the ninth Memorial bay, and a die scratch running from southwest to northeast on the Memorial roof north of the eighth column. This wealth of diagnostics — six reverse markers and two obverse markers — makes WDDR-024 conclusively attributable, and the tripled centripetal spread gives it particular appeal among advanced doubled die specialists.

Die Markers

• Obverse: A die gouge can be found between the bottoms of the I and N of IN. Two parallel die scratches run from NW to SE through the hair at the top of the head. Reverse: A short, vertical die scratch can be found between the tops of the U and N of UNITED. A die gouge can be found south of the E in UNITED. A short, vertical die gouge can be found to the right of the lower E in ONE. A die gouge (dot) can be found at the top of the 3rd Memorial bay. A die scratch runs from SW to NE at the top of the 9th Memorial bay. A die scratch runs from SW to NE on the Memorial roof north of the 8th Memorial column.

Cross References

• None known; Wexler Variety ID: 1961 1¢ Pr WDDR-024

External References