1964 Doubled Die Obverse WDDO-032

Description

Attributed by Brian A. Ribar and cross-referenced as Wexler 1964 WDDO-032 Proof, this proof Jefferson Nickel obverse exhibits Class V Pivoted Hub Doubling showing close doubling on IN GOD WE TRUST. The Class V mechanism results from the hub pivoting on a single contact point between impressions, producing doubling whose intensity increases with radial distance from the pivot — though in this case the doubling is described as "close," indicating the pivot displacement was modest. This variety carries a complex attribution history: it was formerly listed as WDDO-035 and replaces the original WDDO-032 listing, which was delisted because the doubling was too minor to warrant cataloging. Die markers include a die scratch below the star on the obverse, while the reverse shows a die gouge to the upper left of the long right window and die gouges to the lower right of the second S of STATES. The 1964 proof Jefferson Nickel was struck at the Philadelphia Mint in 75% copper and 25% nickel, weighing 5.0 grams with a 21.21 mm diameter. The 1964 proof set holds particular significance as the final year of pre-1965 proof production at Philadelphia before proof coinage moved to San Francisco in 1968, and the last year before clad coinage replaced silver in the dime and quarter denominations. Felix Schlag's Jefferson portrait provides reference geometry where the IN GOD WE TRUST inscription, positioned above and to the right of the bust, occupies a zone where pivoted hub displacement creates diagnostically visible letter separation on the fine serif characters.

Attribution History

• Discovered by Brian A. Ribar
• Wexler Variety ID: 1964 WDDO-032 Proof
• Expert attribution by Brian A. Ribar

External References