1959 Doubled Die Obverse WDDO-003

Description

Representing an uncommon dual-class attribution, the 1959 WDDO-003 proof Jefferson nickel variety documented by Brian A. Ribar combines Class II (Distorted Hub) and Class VI (Distended Hub) doubling mechanisms. This dual-class attribution indicates that two different types of hub distortion occurred during the die production process, producing overlapping displacement patterns on the design. The doubling is visible on LIBERTY, the star, and the date, with tripling evident on the lower portion of the 1 in the date and the Y of LIBERTY, suggesting the hub made at least three slightly offset contacts. Struck at the Philadelphia Mint for proof sets, the coin is composed of 75% copper and 25% nickel, weighing 5.0 grams with a 21.2 mm diameter. Obverse die markers include a die scratch on the back of Jefferson's shoulder and another die scratch on his cheek. Reverse markers include a short die gouge to the upper right of the F of OF and a die gouge to the right of the first A of AMERICA. Cross-referenced as Wexler Variety ID 1959 WDDO-003 Proof, this variety belongs to the Jefferson Nickels Original Design 1938-2003 series. The combination of two doubling classes on a single die is relatively uncommon and adds considerable interest for variety specialists. The 1959 proof nickel marks the same year the Lincoln Memorial reverse debuted, making proof sets from this date especially popular with collectors.

Attribution History

• Discovered by Brian A. Ribar
• Wexler Variety ID: 1959 WDDO-003 Proof
• Expert attribution by Brian A. Ribar

External References