1945 Doubled Die Obverse WDDO-003

Description

Attributed by Thomas McGowan and cataloged by the Wexler Team, this 1945 Mercury Dime WDDO-003 displays a spread toward the center on the date and the designer's initials. Die markers on the obverse show evidence of die clashing and subsequent heavy abrasion to remove the clash marks. Cross-referenced to CONECA 2-O-V, Cherrypickers FS-10-1945-101 (removed in the 6th edition of the guide), and Wexler 1945 10¢ WDDO-003. The removal of the Cherrypickers listing in the 6th edition reflects the ongoing refinement of that reference work's variety threshold standards. Mercury Dimes of 1945 were struck at Philadelphia in 90% silver during the final months of World War II. The spread toward center on the date and initials is the primary doubling diagnostic, and the die clashing and abrasion sequence provides secondary context for the die's history before the working coins reached production. A spread towards the center shows on the date and the designer’s initials.Die Markers: Obverse: The dies clashed and the obverse die was heavily abraded. A NNW/SSE die scratch can be found to the right of the bottom of the hair on the back of the head. Reverse: A SSW/NNE die scratch can be found to the right of the lower fasces.Submitted By: Thomas McGowanCross References: None known Obverse: A vertical die scratch can be found between the upper 1 and 9.

Attribution History

• Discovered by Maurice G. “Doc” Mecum & Kip Mecum Cross References: CONECA: 2-O-V, Cherrypickers: FS-10-1945-101 (Removed in 6th Edition)
• CONECA: 2-O-V, Cherrypickers: FS-10-1945-101 (Removed in 6th Edition); Wexler Variety ID: 1945 10¢ WDDO-003
• Expert attribution by Wexler Team

External References