1943-D Doubled Die Obverse WDDO-001

Description

Struck on zinc-coated steel planchets during World War II when copper was reserved for military use, this 1943-D Lincoln Cent WDDO-001 is cross-referenced as CONECA 1-O-IV and Coppercoins 1943D-1DO-003. The doubling is classified as Class IV, spreading to the northwest on the 1 and 9 of the date. Class IV doubled dies result from a rotated or pivoted hub impression, producing directional spread that varies across the design depending on distance from the pivot point. Multiple die cracks are documented across both obverse and reverse, indicating the die was retained through significant structural deterioration. The 1943 steel cent composition — low-carbon steel coated with zinc — presented unique challenges for die longevity, as the harder planchet material accelerated die wear compared to the standard copper alloy. Being the first cataloged WDDO for 1943-D places this among the most prominent doubled die varieties for the date. The three independent cross-references across CONECA, Coppercoins, and the Wexler system confirm its well-established status. Die Markers: Obverse: Two parallel die scratches run between the upper R and U of TRUST. A die scratch runs from the upper T to the upper R in TRUST. A die crack runs south down the back of the shoulder and arm through the D in V.D.B. A die crack branches east from the die crack running south.

Attribution History

• Discovered by Harry Ellis Cross References: CONECA: 1-O-IV, Coppercoins: 1943D-1DO-003
• CONECA: 1-O-IV, Coppercoins: 1943D-1DO-003; Wexler Variety ID: 1943-D 1¢ WDDO-001
• Expert attribution by Wexler Team

External References