1964 Doubled Die Obverse WDDO-005

Description

Attributed by Richard Ray as 1964 WDDO-005 Proof, this Jefferson Nickel proof presents Class II Distorted Hub Doubling with a notable catalog provenance: this listing was formerly WDDO-057 and replaces the original WDDO-005 entry, which was delisted because the doubling was deemed too minor for catalog inclusion. The renumbering into the vacated WDDO-005 position illustrates the ongoing curation within the Wexler files, where catalog numbers are maintained, recycled, and reassigned as the body of documented varieties evolves through continued research. The close Class II doubling shows on IN GOD WE TRUST, LIBERTY, and the star, producing tight convergent spread patterns on these inscription and design elements. Obverse die markers include heavy die scratches on the rim above GO of GOD, while reverse markers feature a heavy die scratch on the rim from UNITED to the M of AMERICA, two heavy die scratches on the rim above BUS of PLURIBUS, and a die dot above the E of UNITED. The concentration of heavy rim-level die scratches on both sides suggests this die pair experienced rough handling or contact events that scarred the rim zones, creating distinctive linear markers that are especially visible on proof specimens where the mirrored rim surfaces highlight any surface disruption. Felix Schlag's Jefferson Nickel design was struck as a proof at the Philadelphia Mint in 75% copper and 25% nickel at 5.00 grams with a 21.21 mm diameter. The 1964 proof set had a distribution of approximately 3.95 million, providing a relatively large proof population within which this variety can be searched. Richard Ray's attribution contributes to the extensive documentation of 1964 proof Jefferson Nickel doubled dies, a date particularly rich in die varieties.

Attribution History

• Discovered by Richard Ray
• Wexler Variety ID: 1964 WDDO-005 Proof
• Expert attribution by Richard Ray

External References