1970-S Doubled Die Obverse WDDO-029

Description

Among the most remarkable varieties in the entire 1970-S Lincoln Memorial cent series, WDDO-029 is a tripled die — not merely doubled but carrying evidence of three distinct hub impressions at different registrations, making it substantially rarer and more complex than a standard doubled die. Designated FS-01-1970S-104 (old number 030.4) in the Cherry Pickers' Guide, this Proof Large Date variety exhibits strong counterclockwise spread across the obverse, where three overlapping images of design elements create a layered effect visible under magnification. Tripled dies occur when the hubbing process — which typically involves two or more impressions to fully sink the design into the working die — produces three separate impressions with misalignment between each pair, yielding three discernible images rather than two. This requires that neither the second nor the third hubbing impression precisely aligned with its predecessor, a compound error that is far less probable than the single misalignment that produces a standard doubled die. Heavy die scratches at the rim provide additional diagnostic markers specific to this die. Cross-referenced extensively as CONECA 7-O-I, Crawford CDDO-006, and Coppercoins 1970S-1DO-002P, this variety is documented across every major attribution system — the "002P" Coppercoins number indicating it was the second Proof doubled die obverse cataloged for the date, reflecting its early recognition and significance. The Proof format amplifies the visual impact of the tripling, as the polished Proof surfaces and sharp strike preserve the three distinct image layers with exceptional clarity. For collectors, FS-01-1970S-104 represents one of the premier varieties available in the 1970-S series: a Cherry Pickers' listed tripled die on a Proof coin, documented across four attribution systems, with the inherent rarity multiplier that tripling carries over ordinary doubled dies.

Attribution History

• Discovered by Scott Rubin Cross References: CONECA: 7-O-I, Cherrypickers: FS-01-1970S-104 (030.4), Coppercoins: 1970S-1DO-002P, Crawford: CDDO-006
• CONECA: 7-O-I, Cherrypickers: FS-01-1970S-104 (030.4), Coppercoins: 1970S-1DO-002P, Crawford: CDDO-006; Wexler Variety ID: 1970-S 1¢ Pr WDDO-029
• Expert attribution by Wexler Team

External References