1938 Doubled Die Reverse WDDR-007

Description

Classified as Class II distorted hub doubling by Lou Coles and cross-referenced as Wexler Variety ID 1938 WDDR-007, this doubled die reverse on the inaugural 1938 Jefferson Nickel shows close doubling on E PLURIBUS UNUM that increases in spread from left to right, with slight additional doubling on UNITED STATES OF AMERICA. Class II doubling occurs when the hub rotates slightly during the hubbing process, producing a rotational distortion rather than the lateral spread of Class I hub doubling — the increasing spread from left to right is characteristic of this mechanism, as elements farther from the pivot point show greater displacement. Die markers include a die gouge to the lower left of the G of GOD on the obverse and a die scratch above the right arch on the reverse. The 1938 Jefferson Nickel holds special significance as the first year of Felix Schlag's design, which replaced the Buffalo Nickel after twenty-five years of production. Schlag won the design competition from among 390 entries, though the Mint subsequently modified his reverse. This seventh cataloged doubled die reverse for the inaugural year demonstrates how even a series' debut production can yield multiple die varieties for specialist collectors.

Attribution History

• Discovered by Lou Coles
• Wexler Variety ID: 1938 WDDR-007
• Expert attribution by Lou Coles

External References