1956 Doubled Die Obverse WDDO-003

Description

Attributed by Jennifer Casazza and carrying the Wexler Variety ID 1956 WDDO-003 Proof, this Class II+VI (distorted and distended hub) doubled die obverse was struck on a 1956 proof Jefferson nickel at the Philadelphia Mint. The proof designation is significant, as proof coins are specially struck with polished dies on polished planchets for collector sales, and doubled die varieties on proof issues are particularly desirable because the mirror-like fields and sharp design details make the doubling more visible and aesthetically dramatic. The 1956 Jefferson nickel was produced in 75% copper and 25% nickel, weighing 5.0 grams with a 21.2 mm diameter. The Philadelphia Mint struck 669,384 proof sets in 1956. The combined Class II+VI doubling mechanism produces both rotational displacement (Class II) and design element stretching (Class VI), resulting in a strong spread toward the center that shows as separation on IN GOD, the date, the star, and LIBERTY, with extra thickness on WE TRUST. The separation on multiple design elements distinguishes this as a particularly strong doubled die. Obverse die markers include a die gouge from the rim above the B of LIBERTY, a die gouge dot under the chin, and a vertical curving die scratch to the right of the nostrils. No reverse die markers have been noted. Felix Schlag's Jefferson portrait provides the detailed design elements where this hub doubling is apparent, and the proof striking process ensures that each impression is sharp and well-defined, preserving the doubling details in full relief. Jennifer Casazza's attribution work on this variety contributed to the growing census of Jefferson nickel proof doubled dies, a specialized collecting area within the broader Jefferson series.

Attribution History

• Discovered by Jennifer Casazza
• Wexler Variety ID: 1956 WDDO-003 Proof
• Expert attribution by Jennifer Casazza

External References