1970-S Proof Doubled Die Obverse WDDO-033

Description

Cataloged with an explicit proof designation, this entry for WDDO-033 on the 1970-S Lincoln Memorial cent records Class II spread towards the rim on LIBERTY, IN GOD WE TRUST, and the date on a proof Small Date die. Class II hub doubling involves radial outward displacement of the secondary impression, producing extra thickness at the outer edges of affected inscriptions. The outward spread intensifies with distance from the center, meaning LIBERTY near the rim typically shows stronger displacement than centrally located elements. A vertical die gouge in the center fold of Lincoln's vest serves as the primary attribution marker — useful as a screening criterion because the gouge can be quickly checked before committing to time-intensive examination of rim-area inscriptions for Class II spread evidence. Proof striking preserves the vest gouge and rim-area spread with the high-contrast quality characteristic of proof coinage. For collectors examining 1970-S proof Small Date cents in quantity, the vest gouge provides an efficient first-pass filter.

Die Markers

• Obverse: Small Date. A short vertical die gouge can be found in the center fold of the vest to the right of the upper shoulder. Reverse: None noted.

Attribution History

• Discovered by Wexler Team

External References