1969-S Doubled Die Reverse WDDR-001

Description

Attributed by Frank Baumann and designated Wexler Variety ID 1969-S WDDR-001 Proof, this first Wexler doubled die reverse for the 1969-S proof Jefferson Nickel exhibits Class II distorted hub doubling with a close spread on E PLURIBUS UNUM and UNITED STATES OF AMERICA. Class II doubling occurs when the hub deforms slightly between hubbing impressions, producing a spread pattern that distorts design elements rather than simply displacing them in a single direction. The close spread indicates the secondary image lies very near the primary, requiring careful examination under magnification to distinguish the doubling from normal die wear. Obverse die markers include a die gouge inside the D of GOD, while the reverse shows a die dot near the rim to the upper left of the left corner of the Monticello building and a die gouge below RI of AMERICA. As a proof-only variety from the San Francisco Mint, this was struck on specially prepared planchets using polished dies, and the mirror-like proof surfaces can actually make subtle doubled die varieties easier to detect because the reflective fields provide sharper contrast against design elements. The 1969-S proof nickel belongs to the early Modern Clad Era when San Francisco had recently resumed proof production after the 1965-1967 Special Mint Set hiatus, and DDR-001 holds the distinction of being the first reverse doubled die cataloged for this proof date.

Attribution History

• Discovered by Frank Baumann
• Wexler Variety ID: 1969-S WDDR-001 Proof
• Expert attribution by Frank Baumann

External References