1962 Doubled Die Obverse WDDO-004

Description

Proof coinage undergoes more rigorous quality control than circulation strikes, making doubled dies on proof issues both scarcer and more visually dramatic against mirror-like fields. WDDO-004 of the 1962 Proof Jefferson Nickel exhibits Class II distorted hub doubling with close spread on IN GOD WE TRUST. Distorted hub doubling occurs when the hub itself expands or warps during die-sinking, producing spread that affects design elements differently depending on their distance from the distortion center. Die markers on the obverse include a die scratch in Jefferson's hair right of the temple and two slanted die scratches at the bottom of the queue. A reverse die marker appears as a die scratch left of the fourth column of Monticello. These multiple markers provide robust attribution points distinguishing this working die from other 1962 proof dies. Struck at Philadelphia in 75% copper and 25% nickel, proof Jefferson Nickels of this era were produced exclusively for collector sets. The close spread characteristic of Class II doubling requires careful examination, but proof surface quality often makes such features easier to resolve under magnification than on business strikes.

Die Markers

• Obverse: Die scratch in Jefferson's hair to right of his temple; two slanted die scratches at bottom of queue.
• Reverse: Die scratch to left of fourth column.

External References