1963 Proof Lincoln Memorial Cent - Proof Doubled Die Obverse WDDO-073

Description

Identified and attributed as part of the comprehensive Wexler Doubled Die Files, the 1963 Proof WDDO-073 documents a proof-specific doubled obverse die from the Philadelphia Mint's 1963 Lincoln cent production. Each proof die pair in 1963 was individually manufactured, individually hubbed, and individually finished with chrome plating and polishing — and each hubbing session carried its own independent chance of producing a measurable design displacement. WDDO-073 was created by one such event, and the doubled obverse it carries was faithfully reproduced on every proof cent the die struck during its limited service life. The 1963 date carries added significance in numismatic history as the final year of uninterrupted proof set production; the coin shortage that began in 1964 led Congress to suspend proof operations from 1965 through 1967 and to remove mint marks from all coins during that period, making 1963 proof varieties the last from the pre-suspension era. Collectors should use at least 10x magnification and compare the doubling characteristics against Wexler reference photographs to confirm attribution. Struck on a 3.11-gram, 95% copper and 5% zinc planchet at 19.05 mm diameter.

Cross References

• Wexler Variety ID: 1963 1¢ Pr WDDO-073

External References