1963 Doubled Die Obverse WDDO-073

Description

Each new doubled die obverse variety cataloged for the 1963 Lincoln Memorial Cent reinforces the status of this date as one of the most prolific sources of DDO discoveries in the Lincoln cent series, and WDDO-073 continues that pattern from the proof striking category. The Philadelphia Mint's proof facility operated as a semi-independent production unit within the larger mint complex, with its own die preparation staff, presses, and quality standards. Proof dies were hubbed using the same working hubs that served the business-strike program, but the finishing was distinct: chrome plating for durability and mirror surfaces, selective sandblasting for device frosting, and final hand polishing. None of these finishing operations altered the design geometry embedded during hubbing, so a hub misalignment carried through the entire preparation sequence and into service. The approximately 3,000-impression service life of each proof die pair means that WDDO-073 exists on a narrow slice of the 3,075,645 proof Lincoln cents struck in 1963. Collectors examining proof cents from this date for variety potential should use a quality stereo microscope or high-powered loupe in combination with low-angle lighting, which produces the contrast needed to reveal secondary design contours against the mirror field. This variety is cross-referenced as Wexler Variety ID 1963 1c Pr WDDO-073 and was attributed by the Wexler Team. The coin was struck on the standard 95% copper and 5% zinc planchet, carrying Brenner's Lincoln portrait and Gasparro's Lincoln Memorial reverse.

Attribution History

• Wexler Variety ID: 1963 1¢ Pr WDDO-073
• Expert attribution by Wexler Team

External References