1965 Doubled Die Obverse WDDO-001

Description

Classified as Class VI Distended Hub Doubling, this first Wexler doubled die obverse for the 1965 Jefferson Nickel presents a visually appealing form of doubling where the design elements appear to stretch or distend outward, producing extra thickness rather than a cleanly offset secondary image. The Class VI effect shows nicely on LIBERTY, the star, and the date, with a closer spread visible on IN GOD WE TRUST. Class VI doubling results from a change in the effective diameter of the hub between impressions — either through hub wear, pressure variation, or slight dimensional changes — causing the second impression to expand or contract relative to the first. The visual effect is a thickening of design elements that is distinct from the lateral displacement of Class II or the rotational spread of Class IV. Die markers for attribution include a die scratch above and to the left of the long right window on the reverse, and a die gouge above the left arch, providing secondary confirmation beyond the doubling pattern itself. The 1965 Jefferson Nickel occupies a pivotal position in American coinage history: it was the first year produced without a mintmark during the 1965-1967 period when the Treasury removed mintmarks from all coins to discourage hoarding during the nationwide coin shortage. No proofs were struck in 1965 — Special Mint Sets replaced proof sets — making WDDO-001 a business strike variety from this transitional era. The combination of Class VI distended hub doubling with the mintmark-less 1965 date creates a variety with both visual interest and historical context.

Die Markers

• Obverse: None noted.
• Reverse: Die scratch above and to left of long right window; die gouge above left arch.

External References