1966 Doubled Die Obverse DDO-010

Description

Documented by VarietyVista with die markers UVC-084 and DMR-012 and cross-referenced as FS-102, this 1966 Kennedy Half Dollar DDO-010 was produced as a Special Mint Set (SMS) coin and exhibits strong spread on Kennedy's profile, eye, hair above the forehead, ear, and the designer's initials GR (Gilroy Roberts), along with medium spread on IN GOD with clockwise rotation on LIBER of LIBERTY — a dual-pattern doubling where the portrait elements show strong direct displacement while the motto and partial LIBERTY display a rotational component, suggesting a complex hub misalignment combining both linear and pivoted movements. The reverse documentation notes minor doubling of UNITED STATES OF AMERICA and the stars under those letters at Stage A (EDS), indicating the reverse die also experienced some hub displacement though less dramatically than the obverse. Special Mint Set coins from 1965-1967 were produced as replacements for proof sets during the coinage composition transition, struck with special care but without the full proof process, creating a distinctive satin-like finish. The Kennedy Half Dollar in 1966 was struck at the Philadelphia Mint in 40% silver clad composition (outer layers of 80% silver/20% copper bonded to a core of 20.9% silver/79.1% copper) weighing 11.50 grams with a 30.6 mm diameter. Gilroy Roberts designed the obverse portrait with Frank Gasparro's heraldic eagle on the reverse. The FS-102 Cherrypickers' Guide listing confirms this as a variety actively sought in SMS sets, where the strong profile doubling — visible across the nose bridge, eyelid, and ear contours — creates one of the most dramatic doubled die Kennedy varieties of the decade.

Die Markers

• UVC-084
• DMR-012
• Stage A:
• Obverse is EDS
• Minor doubling of UNITED STATES OF AMERICA and the stars under those letters – EDS
• Stage B:
• Obverse is EMDS
• Light die clash through DOL of DOLLAR – EMDS
• Stage C:
• LDS (unconfirmed)

Attribution History

• Discovered by Ken Potter
• FS-102
• Expert attribution by VarietyVista

External References