1963 Doubled Die Obverse WDDO-011

Description

Another proof Jefferson nickel from 1963 bearing Class II distorted hub doubling, WDDO-011 shows the characteristic effect on IN GOD WE TRUST. What distinguishes this variety from its sibling WDDO-010 is the reverse die pairing: this obverse die is married to a reverse listed as 1963 Pr 5c WDDR-050, whereas WDDO-010 pairs with WDDR-055. The different reverse cross-references confirm these are two distinct working die pairs despite sharing the same Class II obverse doubling classification and the same affected inscription. Philadelphia's proof nickel production for 1963 totaled approximately 3.07 million pieces, all struck with multiple impressions from polished dies to achieve the mirror-field finish that defines proof coinage. No significant obverse die markers were noted for WDDO-011, meaning attribution depends on correctly identifying both the IN GOD WE TRUST doubling and the WDDR-050 reverse die. Class II distorted hub doubling arises when the working hub is slightly warped or tilted during the die-sinking process, creating an irregular contact pattern that transfers the design with localized distortion rather than the uniform displacement of Class I rotational doubling. The resulting doubling on IN GOD WE TRUST may appear as variable-width thickening or close splitting across the letters, with the intensity fluctuating along the motto's length. Collectors seeking WDDO-011 should first confirm the reverse matches WDDR-050 to narrow their identification before undertaking the more demanding obverse doubling analysis.

Die Markers

• Obverse: None noted.
• Reverse: Listed as 1963 Pr 5c WDDR-050.

External References