1940-D Doubled Die Obverse WDDO-002

Description

Presenting an unusual combination of two distinct doubling mechanisms on a single die, the 1940-D Jefferson Nickel WDDO-002 exhibits Class II and V doubling — distorted and pivoted hub doubling — showing only on IN GOD WE TRUST. Class II (distorted hub) occurs when the hub face is slightly warped or uneven, transferring design elements at varying depths, while Class V (pivoted hub) results from the hub tilting during impression, creating rotational displacement that varies across the die face. When both classes combine, the resulting doubling shows characteristics of both distortion and rotation, producing a complex secondary image that is neither purely shifted nor purely rotated. The fact that the doubling manifests only on IN GOD WE TRUST suggests the combined displacement concentrated in the motto region of Felix Schlag's obverse, leaving other design elements unaffected. No significant obverse die markers have been noted. On the reverse, a die scratch above the first O of MONTICELLO serves as a confirming marker. Attributed by the Wexler Team, this Denver Mint regular strike was produced in 75% copper and 25% nickel at 5.0 grams. The combined Class II+V designation is uncommon in the doubled die literature, making WDDO-002 a noteworthy example of compound hub doubling mechanics.

Die Markers

• Obverse: None noted.
• Reverse: Die scratch above first O of MONTICELLO.

External References