1970-S Doubled Die Obverse DDO-022

Description

Documented as DDO-022 for the 1970-S Lincoln Memorial cent, this proof doubled die obverse exhibits light spread and extra thickness on LIBERTY — a doubling description that distinguishes it from varieties showing clean separation between primary and secondary impressions. The "extra thickness" qualifier indicates the hub displacement was small enough that the secondary impression overlaps the primary substantially, producing letters that appear wider or heavier than normal rather than displaying distinct doubled outlines. Cataloged under UVC-2951 and DMR-037, this variety uses the Large Date obverse die (ODV-025) and was struck as a proof at the San Francisco Mint. Thickness-based doubling on LIBERTY can be subtle to detect because it does not create the separated or notched letter edges that characterize stronger DDOs. Instead, collectors should compare the width and weight of LIBERTY's letters against a known normal 1970-S Large Date proof, looking for letters that appear bolder or wider than expected — particularly at the serifs and stroke intersections where overlapping hub impressions produce the most metal buildup. The proof striking process, with its higher pressure and polished surfaces, renders this thickness variation with greater precision than a business strike would, making proof coins the optimal medium for detecting overlap-type doubling. DDO-022 appeals to specialists who appreciate the technical nuances of hub doubling mechanics and the variety of visual expressions that hub displacement can produce.

Die Markers

• UVC-2951; DMR-037

External References