1938-D Doubled Die Obverse WDDO-004

Description

Struck during the first year of Jefferson Nickel production, this 1938 Denver issue is cataloged as CONECA DDO-004 (4-O-II-C) and Wexler WDDO-004. The variety exhibits Class II Distorted Hub Doubling, with nice doubling visible on IN GOD WE TRUST, LIBERTY, the star, and the date. Obverse die markers include a die gouge through RTY of LIBERTY. The reverse shows a slanted die scratch between the E and first L of MONTICELLO, along with a die scratch below TS of CENTS. The Jefferson Nickel debuted in 1938, designed by Felix Schlag to replace the beloved Buffalo Nickel. Only the Denver and Philadelphia Mints produced nickels that year, making 1938-D issues foundational pieces for the series. Class II hub doubling results from a distorted hub impression where the secondary image is rotated slightly relative to the first, producing doubling that varies in direction across different areas of the die. The multiple affected legend elements confirm the rotational nature of this hub doubling event.

Attribution History

• Discovered by Brian A. Ribar
• CONECA DDO-004 (4-O-II-C); Wexler Variety ID: 1938-D WDDO-004
• Expert attribution by Brian A. Ribar

External References