1959 Doubled Die Reverse WDDR-013

Description

Attributed by Brian A. Ribar, the 1959 WDDR-013 is a Class II (Distorted Hub) doubled die reverse found on a proof Jefferson nickel struck at the Philadelphia Mint. Close Class II doubling is visible on UNITED STATES OF AMERICA, increasing in strength from left to right across the legend, with a very close spread also showing on UNUM. This progressive left-to-right increase is a hallmark of distorted hub doubling where the hub flexed slightly during impression, creating greater displacement at the periphery of the distortion. The coin is composed of 75% copper and 25% nickel, weighing 5.0 grams with a 21.2 mm diameter. No obverse die markers have been noted, but the reverse provides several clear attribution points: a cluster of die dots above the left arch of Monticello, a die gouge to the right of the small left semicircular window, and three die dots above the small right window. Cross-referenced as Wexler Variety ID 1959 WDDR-013 Proof, this variety belongs to the Jefferson Nickels Original Design 1938-2003 series. The 1959 proof sets, which included the first-year Lincoln Memorial cent, are actively sought by collectors, and the presence of a doubled die nickel in the set adds further numismatic interest. The proof striking process, with its polished dies and multiple impressions, often preserves doubled die features with exceptional clarity.

Attribution History

• Discovered by Brian A. Ribar
• Wexler Variety ID: 1959 WDDR-013 Proof
• Expert attribution by Brian A. Ribar

External References