1964 Doubled Die Obverse WDDO-021

Description

Twenty-first Wexler-cataloged doubled die obverse for the 1964 Proof Jefferson Nickel, WDDO-021 exhibits Class V (Pivoted Hub Doubling) showing on LIBERTY, the star, and the date. In Class V doubling, the hub and die are misaligned by a slight pivot or rotation around a fixed point during the impression process, producing a fan-like displacement pattern where doubling increases with distance from the pivot center. Die markers include a short die scratch inside the 6 of the date and a short die gouge to the upper left of the 1 in the date on the obverse, while the reverse of this die pair is listed separately as 1964 Pr 5c WDDR-053 — an unusual dual-variety die pair where both the obverse and reverse carry doubled die designations. Cross-referenced as Wexler Variety ID 1964 WDDO-021 Proof, the proof designation confirms this variety was struck at the Philadelphia Mint using polished dies and selected planchets. The 1964 Jefferson Nickel holds special significance as the final year of the original Felix Schlag reverse design before the Westward Journey series modifications of 2004-2005. Proof production of 1964 nickels was substantial, with over 3.9 million proof sets manufactured, providing ample material for variety hunters. The pairing of this obverse doubled die with a separately cataloged reverse doubled die on the same die pair is a noteworthy occurrence that suggests both dies received flawed hub impressions — either independently or through related manufacturing circumstances.

Attribution History

• Discovered by Billy G. Crawford
• Wexler Variety ID: 1964 WDDO-021 Proof
• Expert attribution by Billy G. Crawford

External References