1940 Doubled Die Obverse WDDO-021

Description

A proof-only variety from the pre-war era of Lincoln Cent proof production, the 1940 WDDO-021 displays a very close hub doubling spread on 40 in the date and the E in WE, with the tight secondary contours requiring careful magnification to distinguish from the primary impression. The variety ID confirms proof status (1940 1c Pr WDDO-021), placing this among the 15,872 proof Lincoln Cents struck at Philadelphia in 1940. Obverse die markers include die scratches on the neck, ear, chin, nose, and vest to the left of the tie — an unusually comprehensive set of scratches across Lincoln's portrait that collectively provide strong die identification. The reverse carries die scratches through the upper portion of ES in STATES, offering confirmation from the companion die. Pre-war proof Lincoln Cents (1936-1942) were struck exclusively at Philadelphia on specially prepared bronze planchets using polished dies, producing mirror fields and sharp design detail on Victor David Brenner's classic portrait. Struck at 3.11 grams in 95% copper and 5% tin and zinc. Cataloged by the Wexler Team. Examine 40 in the date and E in WE for the very close spread, then confirm with the extensive die scratches on Lincoln's neck, ear, chin, nose, and vest.

Attribution History

• Discovered by Whaden Curtis Cross References: None known
• None known; Wexler Variety ID: 1940 1¢ Pr WDDO-021
• Expert attribution by Wexler Team

External References