1957 Doubled Die Obverse WDDO-011

Description

Among the proof Jefferson Nickels struck at Philadelphia in 1957, WDDO-011 preserves a Class II, Distorted Hub doubling that distributes its effects across several prominent design elements. Close examination reveals the spread on LIBERTY, the star to the left of the date, and the date numerals themselves — the hallmarks of a hub that was slightly misaligned or distorted during the die-making process. Obverse die markers aid positive identification: a series of die gouges runs along the back of Jefferson's head, accompanied by a die dot positioned on his temple. On the reverse, a die dot sits above and between the letters ON of MONTICELLO, providing a secondary confirmation point. Class II doubling results from distortion within the hub itself rather than from a second impression at a different angle, which distinguishes it mechanically from the more common Class I (Rotated Hub) variety. Proof Jefferson Nickels from the late 1950s were struck on specially prepared planchets with polished dies, giving the doubled design elements an enhanced clarity that makes this type of error particularly rewarding to study under magnification. WDDO-011 remains a sought-after variety for collectors who specialize in proof die errors from the pre-1965 era.

Die Markers

• Obverse: Series of die gouges on back of Jefferson's head; die dot on his temple.
• Reverse: Die dot above and between ON of MONTICELLO.

External References