1970-D Doubled Die Obverse WDDO-019

Description

Displaying doubling above both the 7 and the 0 in the date, WDDO-019 on the 1970-D Lincoln Memorial cent shares the vertical displacement pattern common to many varieties from this prolific doubled die date, though each DDO die carries its own unique set of die markers that distinguish it from superficially similar companions. No cross-references to CONECA, Crawford, or other attribution services have been established, making Wexler's research the primary documentation source. The die markers for this variety are concentrated at specific landmarks on both surfaces. On the obverse, a die gouge extends from the base of Lincoln's bust between the designer's initials V.D.B. and the B, providing a quick-check diagnostic that can be verified even on coins with moderate wear. Additional scratches complete the obverse marker profile. The reverse carries its own telltale signs: scratches positioned on both the left and right bases of the Lincoln Memorial, forming a symmetrical pair of markers that further distinguish this particular working die from the dozens of other DDO dies known for the 1970-D date. Attribution of 1970-D doubled dies requires attention to these secondary markers because the primary doubling pattern — extra material above the date digits — is shared across many varieties and cannot alone identify a specific die. Collectors should photograph both the date area and the die marker locations when submitting specimens for confirmation. A light die scratch runs south from the bottom right of the R in LIBERTY. A die scratch runs from north to south in the field to the left of the back of the head. Other die scratches can be found on the obverse. Reverse: A die scratch runs from north to south on the left base of the Memorial below the 2nd column. A die scratch runs from SW to NE on the right base of the Memorial below the 12th column.

Attribution History

• Discovered by John A. Wexler Cross References: None known
• None known; Wexler Variety ID: 1970-D 1¢ WDDO-019
• Expert attribution by Wexler Team

External References