1966 Doubled Die Obverse WDDO-006

Description

The sixth cataloged doubled die obverse for the 1966 SMS Kennedy Half Dollar, WDDO-006 joins a roster of die varieties identified for this Special Mint Set issue. During 1965-1967, the Mint replaced its traditional proof program with Special Mint Sets, coins struck with extra care but without the full mirror-field proof finishing. The 1966 SMS Kennedy Half was composed of 40% silver clad, continuing the reduced silver mandated by the Coinage Act of 1965 after rising silver prices made the original 90% composition unsustainable. Gilroy Roberts's left-facing portrait and Frank Gasparro's Presidential Seal eagle provided ample design complexity where hub doubling could manifest. The existence of at least six doubled die obverses for a single SMS year suggests the die-making process during this transitional era was prone to misalignment, possibly due to equipment or procedural changes as the Mint adapted to new requirements. Cross-referenced as Wexler Variety ID: 1966 50c SMS WDDO-006. Collectors should examine the doubling class and affected elements to distinguish this die from WDDO-003 and other contemporaneous varieties.

Attribution History

• Wexler Variety ID: 1966 50¢ SMS WDDO-006
• Expert attribution by Wexler Team

External References