1909 Doubled Die Obverse WDDO-003

Description

Cataloged as Wexler Variety ID 1909 1¢ WDDO-003, this 1909 Lincoln Wheat Cent with VDB reverse exhibits a close Class II spread towards the center on the second 9 of the date and on WE TRUST. A die crack runs from the lower left base of the bust southwest to the rim, and a second die crack known as the "Spiked Head" runs from the top of the head through the E of WE to the rim. On the reverse, a die crack extends from the right wheat ear to the rim at about 2:30, and another runs from the left wheat ear to the rim at 9:00. This is a VDB reverse, bearing Victor David Brenner's initials that were removed later in 1909 after public controversy. Struck in 95% copper at the Philadelphia Mint, the 1909 VDB cent is among the most iconic issues in American numismatics as the first year of the Lincoln Cent series. The "Spiked Head" die crack adds visual drama to an already significant variety, making WDDO-003 a sought-after combination of doubled die and die crack diagnostics.

Attribution History

• Discovered by John A. Wexler Cross References: None known
• None known; Wexler Variety ID: 1909 1¢ WDDO-003
• Expert attribution by Wexler Team

External References