1968-S Proof Doubled Die Obverse WDDO-006

Description

This entry records the 1968-S proof WDDO-006 doubled die obverse, a strong Class II spread towards the center affecting the letters of IN GOD WE TRUST, LIBERTY, and the date on the 1968-S proof Lincoln Memorial cent. The Class II designation indicates a pivoted hub doubling where the hub rotated between impressions during die manufacture, and the "towards the center" spread direction means design elements shifted inward, with the magnitude of displacement increasing with distance from the pivot point. The involvement of three major inscription areas across different parts of the obverse confirms a significant angular displacement that makes this one of the most visually prominent doubled die varieties for the 1968-S proof date. The proof striking process, which employs polished dies and planchets to create mirror fields and frosted design elements, preserves the doubling with exceptional sharpness and contrast, making proof specimens of WDDO-006 particularly attractive for display and study. Obverse die markers include a die chip between the rim and the first T of TRUST. Reverse die markers include a short vertical die gouge to the right of the center of the E in AMERICA and a short diagonal die gouge in the lower eighth bay of the Lincoln Memorial. The 1968-S proof cent was the first standard proof Lincoln cent issued since 1964, after the three-year Coinage Act of 1965 hiatus replaced proof sets with Special Mint Sets. Struck on a 3.11-gram, 19mm proof planchet of 95% copper and 5% zinc at the San Francisco Mint.

Die Markers

• Obverse: A die chip can be found between the rim and the 1st T of TRUST. Reverse: A short vertical die gouge can be found just to the right of the center of the E in AMERICA. A short diagonal die gouge can be found in the lower 8th bay.

Attribution History

• Discovered by Wexler Team

External References