1967 SMS Jefferson Nickel - Doubled Die Reverse WDDR-002

Description

The 1967 WDDR-002 is a Class II (distorted hub) doubled die reverse variety on a Jefferson nickel, produced during the Special Mint Set era of 1965-1967 when the United States Mint eliminated mintmarks and proof sets in response to a nationwide coin shortage. The coin is composed of 75% copper and 25% nickel, weighing 5.0 grams with a diameter of 21.2 mm. The Class II doubling shows a very close constant spread toward the center on E PLURIBUS UNUM, with additional very close center-ward spreading on UNITED STATES OF AMERICA that increases slightly from left to right. This left-to-right progression is diagnostic of the rotational component of distorted hub doubling. The die markers are particularly significant: the obverse of this coin is listed as 1967 SMS 5¢ WDDO-001, indicating this reverse doubled die was paired with a known doubled die obverse. The combination of both a DDO and DDR on the same coin creates a dual-variety specimen, an occurrence that is relatively uncommon and highly prized by Jefferson nickel variety collectors. Reverse die markers include a short die gouge inside the upper portion of the E in E PLURIBUS UNUM and a light die scratch from the center of that E to the second L of MONTICELLO. Felix Schlag's Monticello reverse provides the architectural and inscription details where the Class II doubling is visible, and the pairing with the WDDO-001 obverse adds considerable numismatic significance. The 1965-1967 era coins without mintmarks present unique collecting challenges, as all production from this period is attributed to Philadelphia regardless of actual striking facility.

Die Markers

• Obverse: Listed as 1967 SMS 5c WDDO-001.
• Reverse: Short die gouge inside upper portion of E of E PLURIBUS UNUM; light die scratch from center of E to second L of MONTICELLO.

External References