1962 Proof Doubled Die Obverse WDDO-014

Description

Reaching across two major inscription zones with a distinctive notching feature, the 1962 Proof Lincoln Memorial Cent WDDO-014 shows moderate extra thickness on LIBERTY and IN GOD WE TRUST, accompanied by notching on the lower portions of the L and I in LIBERTY. The notching effect — where the secondary impression creates small step-like irregularities along the lower serifs or bases of the affected letters — provides a particularly precise diagnostic for this variety, as the specific location and character of the notching will differ from other WDDO entries that also display LIBERTY thickening. Notching occurs when the secondary hub impression slightly displaces the lower boundary of a letter, creating a visible ledge or shelf where the doubled outline diverges from the primary device at an angle rather than running parallel to it. On proof surfaces produced at the Philadelphia Mint, where specially prepared dies operating under elevated striking pressure deliver crisp impressions into mirror-finish planchets, this notching resolves with exceptional sharpness — the clean edges characteristic of proof striking preserve the geometric precision of the displaced boundaries, making them easier to detect and measure than equivalent features on business strikes where die wear and strike quality introduce additional variables. Obverse die markers include a die gouge extending west-southwest from the rim above the second T in TRUST, a feature that provides a convenient preliminary screening point before the collector proceeds to examine the notching details under higher magnification. No significant reverse die markers have been documented. This variety was struck as part of the 1962 proof production of 3,218,019 sets, with each proof die typically serving approximately 3,000 impressions before retirement. The 1962 date represents the final proof issue in the original 95% copper alloy composition.

Die Markers

• Obverse: A die gouge extends WSW from the rim above the second T in TRUST. Reverse: None significant.

Attribution History

• Discovered by Wexler Team

External References