1964 Doubled Die Obverse WDDO-006

Description

Attributed by Brian A. Ribar and cross-referenced as Wexler Variety ID 1964 WDDO-006, this Class V pivoted hub variety on the 1964 Jefferson Nickel was formerly listed as WDDO-056 and now replaces the original WDDO-006, which was delisted because it was too minor. The variety displays close Class V doubling on IN GOD WE TRUST and LIBERTY on Felix Schlag's obverse design. Die markers include a slanted die scratch below 64 of the date on the obverse, while the reverse shows a die scratch below CEL of MONTICELLO. Class V pivoted hub doubling occurs when the secondary hub impression is rotated slightly around a fixed pivot point relative to the primary impression, creating an arc-shaped displacement that varies in magnitude based on distance from the pivot — design elements near the pivot show minimal displacement, while those farther away show progressively greater offset. The close intensity on both IN GOD WE TRUST and LIBERTY indicates the doubling is subtle but detectable on these two obverse inscriptions that arc above and to the left of Jefferson's portrait. The reassignment from WDDO-056 to WDDO-006 reflects catalog consolidation, where a variety from a higher catalog position fills a vacated lower slot to maintain an efficient numbering sequence. The 1964 Jefferson Nickel was struck at the Philadelphia Mint in 75% copper and 25% nickel at 5.00 grams with a 21.2 mm diameter — the final year of the original proof-set era before the 1965-1967 Special Mint Set transition. The die scratch below 64 provides a quick obverse authentication marker, while the CEL die scratch on the reverse confirms the die pair identity. Examination under 10x magnification with consistent lighting best reveals the close pivoted doubling on the motto and LIBERTY.

Attribution History

• Discovered by Brian A. Ribar
• Wexler Variety ID: 1964 WDDO-006
• Expert attribution by Brian A. Ribar

External References