1956 Doubled Die Obverse WDDO-001

Description

Struck as a Type 1 proof with brilliant mirror fields and minimal frosted contrast, this 1956 Franklin Half Dollar WDDO-001 displays one of the strongest doubled die effects in the proof Franklin series. Very strong Class VI spread toward center on LIBERTY and IN GOD creates compression doubling that pushes secondary impressions inward, while Class II separation on WE TRUST and the date adds a second doubling mechanism. This dual-class attribution indicates the hub shifted both rotationally and linearly between impressions. The reverse die is itself cataloged as WDDR-001, making this a dual-surface doubled die with independent hub-doubling anomalies on both sides. Cataloged under Wexler Variety ID 1956 50-cent Pr WDDO-001, this Type 1 proof combines the brilliant finish typical of early 1950s proof production with dramatic doubling visible at moderate magnification on LIBERTY and the motto. The Type 1 finish, lacking the heavy frost of later strikes from the same dies, presents the doubling with clean, sharply defined secondary outlines against reflective surfaces. Die Markers: Obverse: A small die gouge (dot) can be found on the lower left of the E in WE. A die scratch runs across the lower front of the bust. A die scratch runs across the upper Y in LIBERTY. A die chip can be found between the upper P and L of PLURIBUS. Die chips can be found between the eagle’s lower right wing feathers.

Attribution History

• s:; Wexler Variety ID: 1956 50¢ Pr WDDO-001
• Expert attribution by Wexler Team

External References