1956 Doubled Die Reverse WDDR-032

Description

Discovered by Timothy Wissert and cataloged as Wexler Variety ID 1956 WDDR-032 Proof, this Jefferson Nickel doubled die reverse comes from the proof coinage struck at the Philadelphia Mint during 1956. The proof designation is significant — proof Jefferson Nickels were produced on specially prepared polished planchets using polished dies, struck multiple times to achieve the mirror-like fields and frosted design elements that characterize proof coinage. Hub doubling on proof dies carries added collector interest because proof dies typically received more careful preparation and quality control than business strike dies, making doubled die varieties on proof issues statistically less common. The thirty-second documented doubled die reverse for the 1956 proof issue indicates an extensive population of working proof dies were manufactured that year and have been thoroughly examined by variety specialists. Felix Schlag's Monticello reverse provides multiple inscription and architectural elements where hub doubling can manifest, including E PLURIBUS UNUM, UNITED STATES OF AMERICA, MONTICELLO, FIVE CENTS, and the detailed building facade with its columns, pediment, and dome. The Jefferson Nickel was struck in standard 75% copper and 25% nickel composition, weighing 5.0 grams with a 21.2 mm diameter and plain edge — the same specifications for both business strike and proof versions. Timothy Wissert's discovery of this variety contributes to the growing census of proof Jefferson Nickel doubled die reverses, and the combination of proof strike quality and hub doubling makes WDDR-032 an appealing attribution target for collectors who specialize in proof die varieties.

Attribution History

• Discovered by Timothy Wissert
• Wexler Variety ID: 1956 WDDR-032 Proof
• Expert attribution by Timothy Wissert

External References