1966 Doubled Die Obverse WDDO-003

Description

Cataloged as the third doubled die obverse for the 1966 SMS Kennedy Half Dollar, WDDO-003 documents another hubbing misalignment during die preparation for this Special Mint Set issue. The 1966 Kennedy Half was produced exclusively as an SMS coin during the 1965-1967 suspension of proof production while transitioning from silver to clad coinage. Struck in 40% silver clad at the San Francisco assay office, these SMS coins featured a finish between business strike and proof quality. Gilroy Roberts designed the obverse portrait of President Kennedy from the presidential medal he had prepared, while Frank Gasparro created the heraldic eagle reverse based on the Presidential Seal. The Kennedy Half Dollar was introduced in 1964 as a tribute following the president's assassination and quickly became one of the most collected American series. Multiple doubled die obverses cataloged for the 1966 SMS issue reflect the die-making complexities of this transitional period. Cross-referenced as Wexler Variety ID: 1966 50c SMS WDDO-003.

Attribution History

• Wexler Variety ID: 1966 50¢ SMS WDDO-003
• Expert attribution by Wexler Team

External References