1971-S Doubled Die Obverse WDDO-002

Description

The 1971-S Doubled Die Obverse WDDO-002 on the proof Jefferson Nickel is classified as Class V, Pivoted Hub Doubling, exhibiting a counterclockwise spread from a pivot point at approximately the 2 o'clock position. This pivoted doubling is most prominent on the motto IN GOD WE TRUST and also affects the designer's initials FS (for Felix Schlag). Extremely slight doubling is also detectable on the date and the star, where the spread diminishes as the design elements approach the pivot point — a characteristic geometric property of Class V doubling. The Jefferson Nickel is struck in cupronickel (75% copper, 25% nickel) at 5.00 grams and 21.2 mm diameter. This die combines multiple variety types: the obverse is also WRPM-001, an S/S East repunched mintmark, adding a second collectible attribution to the same die. Obverse die markers include a die gouge appearing as a dot midway between the D of GOD and the W of WE, and another die gouge dot between the legs of the R of LIBERTY. The reverse of this die pair is itself a doubled die, listed separately as 1971-S Pr 5-cent WDDR-002, making the complete die marriage a doubled die obverse paired with a doubled die reverse — an exceptionally rare combination that makes certified examples highly sought after by Jefferson Nickel variety specialists.

Die Markers

• Obverse: WRPM-001 S/S East.  Die gouge (dot) midway between D of GOD and W of WE; die gouge (dot) between legs of R of LIBERTY.
• Reverse: The reverse is a doubled die listed as 1971-S Pr 5c WDDR-002.

External References