1957 Doubled Die Reverse WDDR-008

Description

Cross-referenced as CONECA 1-R-II and attributed by John A. Wexler as 1957 WDDR-008 Proof, this proof Jefferson Nickel reverse exhibits Class II Distorted Hub Doubling — a mechanism where slight warping of the working hub between impressions produced directionally variable doubling across the die face. A close Class II spread is visible on E PLURIBUS UNUM, increasing in intensity from left to right across the inscription, with a closer spread on AMERICA. This left-to-right intensity gradient is characteristic of distortion-based doubling, where the magnitude of displacement varies across the design depending on proximity to the distortion axis. Obverse die markers include a wavy die gouge on Jefferson's forehead — a distinctive identification point whose irregular contour makes it particularly reliable for attribution. The reverse carries a short die gouge at the top left corner of the long left window and a short die gouge extending from the lower left side of the large semicircular window of the Monticello facade. The 1957 Jefferson Nickel proof was struck at the Philadelphia Mint in 75% copper and 25% nickel, weighing 5.0 grams with a 21.21 mm diameter. Proof nickels from 1957 were part of a proof mintage of approximately 1.25 million sets, struck with specially prepared dies on polished planchets. The wavy die gouge on Jefferson's forehead serves as a quick preliminary screening marker — collectors can check for this distinctive obverse feature before examining the more subtle reverse doubling, streamlining the cherrypicking process for dealers and roll searchers.

Attribution History

• Discovered by John A. Wexler
• CONECA 1-R-II; Wexler Variety ID: 1957 WDDR-008 Proof
• Expert attribution by John A. Wexler

External References