1964 Doubled Die Obverse WDDO-009

Description

Just ahead of WDDO-010 in the catalog sequence, the 1964 proof Kennedy Half Dollar WDDO-009 represents the ninth documented doubled die obverse for this date-mint-format combination. Under the Wexler Team's systematic cataloging (reference: 1964 50c Pr WDDO-009), each numbered variety within the 1964 proof Kennedy DDO family corresponds to a physically distinct working die that received its own unique hub misalignment event during the die preparation process at the Philadelphia Mint. Hub doubling on proof dies creates an especially clean diagnostic because the die surface begins as a polished mirror — any secondary impression from a misaligned hub strike leaves a precise, undistorted ghost of the design elements that contrasts sharply against the flawless proof field. Roberts' Kennedy portrait includes diagnostic checkpoints at the hair waves above the ear, the letters of LIBERTY (particularly the vertical strokes of L, I, and the serif connections), and the fine text of IN GOD WE TRUST along the lower obverse border. Struck in 90% silver composition at the full 12.5-gram weight, each 1964 proof Kennedy Half Dollar was packaged in a flat-pack proof set, and surviving examples in high grade retain the deep cameo contrast that makes DDO attribution both easier and more aesthetically compelling than on later clad proof issues. Distinguishing WDDO-009 from adjacent numbers demands careful directional analysis of the spread under at least 5x magnification.

Attribution History

• Wexler Variety ID: 1964 50¢ Pr WDDO-009
• Expert attribution by Wexler Team

External References