1960 Proof Doubled Die Obverse WDDO-020
Error
Description
Requiring patient examination of two obverse design zones, WDDO-020 on the 1960 Lincoln Memorial Cent Proof Large Date exhibits a very close Class II spread towards the center on LIBERTY and IN GOD WE TRUST. The centerward displacement is minimal — falling in the "very close" category that demands high magnification and careful edge-by-edge comparison to confirm — but it affects both the legend and the motto, providing two separate areas where the secondary hub impression can be sought. The obverse die carries die scratches in the ear region and additional die scratches near Lincoln's eye, providing facial diagnostics that help narrow attribution. On the reverse, die scratches can be found near the Memorial columns, serving as secondary confirmation points for the die pairing. The Large Date proof hub is identified by the characteristically taller 1 digit and lower-sitting 0, placing this die in the earlier proof production phase at Philadelphia. With proof dies typically limited to approximately 3,000 impressions before retirement, the total population of WDDO-020 is inherently constrained. The mirror-like proof fields offer a modest detection advantage, as the reflective surface enhances contrast at the letter edges where the extremely close centerward spread is most likely to be resolved. Cataloged by the Wexler Team as 1960 1¢ Pr WDDO-020 with no other known cross-references.
Die Markers
- Obverse: Large Date. A die scratch runs from WSW to ENE through the top of the ear. A die scratch runs WSW from the eye. Reverse: A die scratch runs SSW from the bottom of the 11th column. Numerous light die scratches can be found in the last two Memorial bays.
Attribution History
- Discovered by Wexler Team