1962 Proof Doubled Die Obverse WDDO-008

Description

Carrying a broadly distributed spread that reaches across two of the obverse's principal inscription zones, the 1962 Proof Lincoln Memorial Cent WDDO-008 exhibits doubling directed toward the rim on the date and on the letters of IN GOD WE TRUST. The outward-directed displacement pushes the secondary impression of each affected digit and letter away from the center of the die, producing a subtle expansion effect that is most readily detected along the outer profiles of the characters where the secondary outline trails beyond the primary device's edge. The involvement of both the date at the lower right and the motto across the upper obverse confirms that the hub displacement was of sufficient geometry to project visible doubling across a wide angular range of the die face. On proof surfaces, where polished dies operating under elevated striking pressure at the Philadelphia Mint produce the characteristic mirror fields and frosted devices, this type of outward-directed spread can manifest with deceptive subtlety — the high reflectivity of the fields can either enhance or mask fine secondary outlines depending on the lighting angle, making careful technique essential. Only obverse die markers have been noted for this variety, though specific details are not elaborated in the current records. No significant reverse die markers have been documented. Collectors should work at 10x to 16x magnification with diffused lighting to minimize glare when examining the date and motto for the rim-directed spread. Each proof die served for roughly 3,000 strikes before being retired from service, and this variety was produced as part of the 1962 proof mintage of 3,218,019 sets — the last year proof Lincoln cents were struck in the original 95% copper, 5% tin-and-zinc alloy composition that had been standard since 1909.

Die Markers

• Obverse

Attribution History

• Discovered by Wexler Team

External References