1970-S Doubled Die Obverse DDO-009

Description

A proof-strike doubled die obverse, DDO-009 on the 1970-S Lincoln Memorial cent displays light spread on LIBERTY and IN GOD with rotation visible on the date, indicating a rotational component to the hub misalignment during die production. Cataloged as UVC-2259 and DMR-018, this variety uses the Large Date obverse die (ODV-025) and was produced as part of the San Francisco Mint's proof coin program. Proof DDOs occupy a unique niche in variety collecting because they are collectible in two distinct contexts: proof collectors pursuing complete sets value these coins for their mirror-like fields and sharp strikes, while variety specialists seek them for their hub doubling characteristics. The proof striking process — using specially polished dies and planchets with multiple strikes at increased pressure — can actually enhance the visibility of hub doubling because the sharper impression transfers doubled details with greater fidelity than a single-blow business strike. The rotational element in the date doubling suggests a Class I (rotated) hub doubling mechanism, where the hub or die turned slightly between impressions, producing spread that increases with distance from the pivot point. Light spread across LIBERTY and the motto combined with rotational date doubling gives DDO-009 a distinctive attribution profile that distinguishes it from other proof Large Date DDOs in the 1970-S sequence.

Die Markers

• UVC-2259; DMR-018

External References