1972-S Doubled Die Reverse WDDR-001

Description

Struck at the San Francisco Mint as a proof issue, the 1972-S Jefferson Nickel WDDR-001 exhibits Class II distorted hub doubling — a mechanism where the working hub deformed under pressure during the sinking process, producing a constant spread toward the center rather than a clean directional shift. The doubling manifests prominently on E PLURIBUS UNUM, where each letter shows measurable inward displacement. Additional spread toward the center appears on STATES OF AMERICA, increasing progressively from left to right across the inscription, and on the right side of Felix Schlag's Monticello building facade. This progressive left-to-right intensification is characteristic of Class II distortion and helps distinguish this variety from rotational or pivot doubling. Key reverse die markers include a die gouge positioned between the P of PLURIBUS and the rim, a second die gouge above the right porch of Monticello, and a distinctive die gouge appearing as a raised dot inside the C of MONTICELLO. No notable obverse die markers have been documented. The Jefferson Nickel was struck in a 75% copper, 25% nickel composition at 5.00 grams on a 21.2mm planchet, and proof specimens from this era were produced with mirror-like fields and frosted devices.

Die Markers

• Obverse: None noted.
• Reverse: Die gouge between P of PLURIBUS and rim; die gouge above right porch; die gouge (dot) inside C of MONTICELLO.

External References