1949-S Repunched Mintmark WRPM-003

Description

Within the extensive roster of 1949-S Jefferson Nickel repunched mintmarks, WRPM-003 represents the third formally cataloged RPM, attributed by the Wexler Team as part of a census totaling at least eleven varieties. This extraordinary RPM concentration for a single date and mint makes the 1949-S a focal point for Jefferson die variety specialists. San Francisco's process of hand-applying the S mintmark was identical to Denver's: an engraver positioned a letter punch to the right of Monticello and struck it with a mallet. Any deviation — lateral, vertical, or rotational — prompted a corrective second blow, creating the doubled impressions that define RPMs. The 1949-S saw moderate mintage, neither the highest nor lowest in the postwar series, placing it in a middle ground of availability that suits collectors wanting enough material to search without facing key-date scarcity. Each of the eleven-plus RPM varieties carries its own unique repunching signature, making accurate attribution a matter of careful comparison with published reference images.

Attribution History

• Discovered by John Bordner Cross References: None known
• None known; Wexler Variety ID: 1949-S 5¢ WRPM-003
• Expert attribution by Wexler Team

External References