1969-S Doubled Die Reverse WDDR-024

Description

A proof-strike variety attributed by Brian A. Ribar, WDDR-024 on the 1969-S Jefferson Nickel features Class II distorted hub doubling on E PLURIBUS UNUM and UNITED STATES OF AMERICA, with both spreads increasing from left to right across each inscription. This left-to-right spread gradient is the hallmark of a distorted hub event where metal flow within the hub during the hubbing process was not symmetric — the rightward portions of the inscriptions experienced greater displacement than the leftward portions, creating a progressive widening of the doubled image as the eye tracks from left to right. The proof designation in the Wexler catalog (1969-S WDDR-024 Proof) confirms this variety occurs on coins struck at the San Francisco Mint using the proof manufacturing process — polished planchets struck multiple times with polished dies at slower press speeds, producing mirror-field surfaces that can actually enhance the visibility of hub doubling by providing high-contrast backgrounds against which the doubled design stands in sharp relief. Die markers documented by Ribar include two die gouges to the right of the lower portion of the P of PLURIBUS and a die scratch on the rim below TE of STATES, both on the reverse. No obverse markers have been noted. Proof Jefferson Nickels from 1969-S were sold exclusively in annual proof sets and are struck in the standard 75% copper, 25% nickel composition at 5.0 grams. The Class II distorted hub mechanism produces a convergent spread — the doubled images move toward the design center — making the outermost inscription letters the most sensitive diagnostic zones.

Attribution History

• Discovered by Brian A. Ribar
• Wexler Variety ID: 1969-S WDDR-024 Proof
• Expert attribution by Brian A. Ribar

External References