1970-S Doubled Die Obverse WDDO-022

Description

The Small Date manifestation of WDDO-022 on the 1970-S Lincoln Memorial cent presents the same hub doubling above the L in LIBERTY that characterizes the Large Date entry, but within the Small Date parent classification where the overall date configuration differs in the proportions and positioning of the numerals. Because the doubling on WDDO-022 is concentrated on LIBERTY rather than on the date digits, the visual appearance of the doubled die evidence is functionally identical across both date variants — the L in LIBERTY is the same design element regardless of which date punch was used. What changes between the two entries is the broader die context: the Small Date 1970-S cent was produced in lower quantities, and its date configuration serves as the primary sorting criterion that determines which parent classification a given specimen falls under. The two-stage obverse and two-stage reverse die progression, combined with the die clash mark south of the Lincoln Memorial on the reverse, provides the same attribution framework available for the Large Date entry. Cherry-pickers examining 1970-S Small Date cents for this variety should focus magnified attention on the top of the L in LIBERTY, looking for a thin shelf or extra line of metal directly above the letter's vertical stroke. The die clash mark below the Memorial on the reverse offers immediate confirmation once located, as this transferred obverse design impression is specific to this die pairing and independent of the hub doubling itself. Die Markers: Obverse Stage A: A small die gouge can be found below the left side of the R in LIBERTY. A small die gouge can be found above the seven in the date. Reverse Stage A: A strong die scratch runs SSW/NNE to the left of the left roof. Numerous other die scratches can be found throughout the reverse. Reverse Stage B: Additional die scratches run E/W to the left of the left roof.

Attribution History

• Discovered by John A. Wexler Cross References: None known
• None known; Wexler Variety ID: 1970-S 1¢ WDDO-022
• Expert attribution by Wexler Team

External References