1969-S Doubled Die Reverse WDDR-035

Description

Attributed by Brian Ribar and cross-referenced as Wexler Variety ID 1969-S WDDR-035 Proof, this Class II distorted hub doubled die reverse on the 1969-S Jefferson Nickel presents a close spread on UNITED STATES OF AMERICA that increases progressively from left to right, accompanied by a much tighter spread on E PLURIBUS UNUM. Class II distorted hub doubling arises when the working hub flexes or warps slightly during the impression process, creating a non-uniform displacement that varies in magnitude across different regions of the die face — explaining the left-to-right intensification observed on the UNITED STATES OF AMERICA legend. The diagnostic die markers for this variety include a die scratch on Jefferson's forehead on the obverse, while the reverse shows a die scratch on the rim above PLU of PLURIBUS and another die scratch on the rim below AMER of AMERICA. As a proof issue struck at the San Francisco Mint, this nickel was produced on specially polished planchets using mirror-finish dies, giving the coin highly reflective fields that enhance the visibility of even subtle hub doubling. The Jefferson Nickel, designed by Felix Schlag and struck in 75% copper / 25% nickel at 5.00 grams with a diameter of 21.2 mm, features Monticello on the reverse surrounded by E PLURIBUS UNUM and UNITED STATES OF AMERICA — the two inscriptions where this variety's doubling concentrates. Examination under 7x to 10x magnification with oblique lighting best reveals the progressive spread across the rim lettering.

Attribution History

• Discovered by Brian Ribar
• Wexler Variety ID: 1969-S WDDR-035 Proof
• Expert attribution by Brian Ribar

External References