1970-D Doubled Die Obverse WDDO-004

Description

One of the most thoroughly documented doubled die obverses in the 1970-D Wexler series, WDDO-004 (Wexler Variety ID: 1970-D 1¢ WDDO-004) exhibits its primary doubling as a partial horizontal bar of the 7 visible above the 7 in the date — a subtle but confirmable Class I or Class III spread affecting the date numerals. What elevates this variety's documentation above typical listings is the extensive multi-stage die-state record that traces both obverse and reverse through progressive deterioration. On the obverse, Stage A is identified by a short vertical die gouge between the lower S and T in TRUST, accompanied by numerous die scratches running southwest to northeast through the date and mint mark. Stage B shows the die in a later marriage following a clash event: die clash marks from the Memorial bays appear to the left of Lincoln's neck, and remnants of a clash mark from the Memorial roof line extend from the 1 in the date to the bust, while numerous abrasion die scratches run throughout — evidence of die maintenance (lapping or polishing) attempted between stages. The reverse similarly progresses through two stages: Stage A features a short die scratch connecting the bottom of the first T and the A in STATES, plus a small die gouge touching the bottom right of the N in CENT; Stage B introduces numerous abrasion die scratches throughout the reverse, paralleling the obverse's maintenance evidence. No cross-references to other attribution services have been established. The die clash evidence in obverse Stage B makes this variety particularly interesting to researchers because it documents the die's continued use after a clash event — the clash marks serve as additional confirmatory diagnostics for collectors attributing later-state specimens.

Attribution History

• None known; Wexler Variety ID: 1970-D 1¢ WDDO-004
• Expert attribution by Wexler Team

External References