1963 Proof Doubled Die Obverse WDDO-041

Description

Lincoln cent specialists who have worked through hundreds of 1963 proof sets recognize that variety hunting on this date demands both patience and precision, and WDDO-041 is the kind of discovery that rewards systematic searching. This proof doubled die obverse variety was created when the obverse working hub was not perfectly aligned between successive impressions during die manufacture at the Philadelphia Mint, embedding a permanent secondary design image in the die steel. After hubbing, the die received the chrome plating and polishing treatment that produced proof-quality mirror surfaces, and it entered the press line carrying its doubled image beneath the chrome layer. Every proof cent struck from this die during its approximately 3,000-impression service life inherited the same doubled obverse, creating a finite population of variety coins within the 3,075,645 proof Lincoln cents produced in 1963. The Wexler catalog now documents dozens of proof DDO varieties for the 1963 cent, reflecting the large number of proof dies consumed during the year and the independent chance for hubbing misalignment that each die represented. Collectors should use a quality loupe or stereo microscope at 10x to 20x magnification with low-angle lighting to examine the obverse for secondary contours on the legends, date, and portrait features. The coin was struck on a 95% copper and 5% zinc planchet and bears the Brenner portrait with Gasparro's Lincoln Memorial reverse design. With 1963 being the last year before the suspension of proof production, proof varieties from this date carry both numismatic and historical interest.

Attribution History

• Discovered by Wexler Team

External References