1961 Doubled Die Obverse WDDO-004

Description

A Class V counterclockwise spread from a pivot point at approximately 6:00, this 1961 proof Franklin Half Dollar doubled die shows best on the L and E of LIBERTY. Class V pivoted hub doubling rotates the secondary impression around a fixed point, creating separation that increases with distance from the pivot — in this case the bottom of the die face at 6:00, which means design elements near the top (LIBERTY) display the most pronounced displacement. Die markers for the obverse include a die gouge running south from the bottom left side of the G in GOD, providing a fixed diagnostic independent of strike characteristics. On the reverse, a short vertical die gouge appears to the left of the top of the second A in AMERICA. Wexler Variety ID: 1961 50¢ Pr WDDO-004. Philadelphia Mint proof production. The Franklin Half Dollar series entered its final year in 1961 — production would cease in 1963 and be replaced by the Kennedy Half Dollar in 1964 — making proof doubled dies from these terminal dates particularly appealing to series specialists closing out their Franklin collections.

Attribution History

• Discovered by Lou Coles Cross References: None known
• None known; Wexler Variety ID: 1961 50¢ Pr WDDO-004
• Expert attribution by Wexler Team

External References