1967 Doubled Die Reverse WDDR-008

Description

Eighth Wexler-cataloged doubled die reverse for the 1967 Jefferson Nickel, WDDR-008 is classified as Class II, Distorted Hub Doubling and was attributed by Timothy Wissert. The diagnostic shows very close Class II doubling on E PLURIBUS UNUM and UNITED STATES OF AMERICA — the two major reverse inscriptions on the Monticello design. A critical attribution note links this variety to 1967 SMS (Special Mint Set) production: the cross-reference reads "Wexler Variety ID: 1967 WDDR-008 SMS," identifying it as a Special Mint Set coin rather than a regular business strike. The 1967 Special Mint Sets replaced the traditional proof sets during the 1965-1967 period when the Treasury Department suspended normal proof and uncirculated set production as part of the response to the national coin shortage. SMS coins were struck with enhanced quality but fell short of full proof standards, creating a distinctive striking format unique to this three-year window. Additionally, the die markers note this is "Listed as 1967 SMS 5c WDDO-003" — meaning the obverse die is independently cataloged as a doubled die obverse, making this a dual-variety coin displaying doubled dies on both sides. The reverse die marker includes a die gouge (dot) between R and I of AMERICA, providing a secondary attribution point. Class II Distorted Hub Doubling produces uniform, close spread across a broad design area, and the very close spacing described here indicates the distortion was subtle — requiring careful magnification to observe the doubled outlines on the inscription letters. The dual DDO/DDR pairing on an SMS issue makes this a particularly noteworthy variety for Jefferson Nickel specialists.

Attribution History

• Discovered by Timothy Wissert
• Wexler Variety ID: 1967 WDDR-008 SMS
• Expert attribution by Timothy Wissert

External References