1962 Doubled Die Reverse WDDR-025

Description

Attributed by John A. Wexler as 1962 WDDR-025 and cross-referenced as CONECA 14-R-II-C(3), this Jefferson Nickel proof exhibits Class II Distorted Hub Doubling with a distinctive tripled spread directed toward the center on UNITED STATES OF AMERICA, particularly prominent on the lower serifs where the tripling creates three distinct overlapping letter images visible under moderate magnification. A closer doubled spread — tighter and requiring more careful examination — appears on E PLURIBUS UNUM and FIVE CENTS, with all spread patterns increasing in intensity from left to right across each inscription, indicating the hub displacement vector was oriented to produce progressively greater separation toward the right side of the die. Two documented obverse die stages provide attribution checkpoints: Stage A features a diagonal die gouge on the back edge of the coat just below the collar, while Stage B shows a series of strong north-south die scratches in front of the eye, mouth, and chin — progressive deterioration markers that developed as the die accumulated service hours. No significant reverse die markers have been noted beyond the doubling itself. The Jefferson Nickel was designed by Felix Schlag with a Monticello reverse, struck at the Philadelphia Mint in 75% copper and 25% nickel composition, weighing 5.00 grams with a 21.21 mm diameter. The tripled spread on UNITED STATES OF AMERICA distinguishes this from simpler doubled die varieties, as tripling requires the die to receive three separate hub impressions with slightly different alignments — an event rarer than standard doubling and producing a layered visual effect that serious variety collectors actively seek within the 1962 proof nickel population.

Attribution History

• Discovered by John A. Wexler
• CONECA 14-R-II-C(3); Wexler Variety ID: 1962 WDDR-025
• Expert attribution by John A. Wexler

External References