1944-D Doubled Die Obverse WDDO-007

Description

Shell case cents from 1944 occupy a transitional moment in Lincoln Cent history — the bridge between the unpopular steel cents of 1943 and the eventual return to standard bronze composition in 1947. The brass cartridge alloy used during 1944–1946 contained approximately 70% copper and 30% zinc, close to but not identical to the pre-war 95% copper / 5% tin and zinc formula. This subtle compositional difference can affect surface characteristics relevant to variety detection: the shell case alloy tends to produce slightly softer luster and different toning patterns over time. WDDO-007 from the Denver Mint is the seventh doubled die obverse documented for the 1944-D issue, identified through examination of the obverse design for hub displacement. The volume of varieties cataloged for this date reflects Denver's record-breaking production, which generated more working dies than any other year in the facility's Wheat Cent history. Cataloged under Wexler Variety ID 1944-D 1¢ WDDO-007.

Attribution History

• Wexler Variety ID: 1944-D 1¢ WDDO-007
• Expert attribution by Wexler Team

External References