1960 Proof Doubled Die Reverse WDDR-017

Description

The flagship doubled die reverse of the 1960 proof Lincoln Memorial cent series, WDDR-017 on the Proof Small Date exhibits the strongest and most visually dramatic reverse doubling documented on any 1960 proof cent die. A strong Class II spread towards the center is prominently visible on the right Memorial base, the right cornice, and the right side of the roof, with equally strong doubling on the letters of ONE CENT. A lesser centerward spread extends to the letters of USA, the left base, the left cornice, the left side of the roof, and the designer's initials. Tripling — evidence of a third hub impression — can be seen on some of the letters, especially the CA in AMERICA, adding another dimension of complexity to what is already an exceptional variety. The obverse carries a short die gouge on the bottom front of the bust, while the reverse shows a die scratch running south-southwest to north-northeast near the center of the 1st Memorial bay. The proof format limits the population to approximately 3,000 specimens per die, and the combination of strong visible doubling with tripling and proof scarcity makes WDDR-017 one of the most actively pursued 1960 cent varieties. The Small Date hub designation places this die in the later proof production phase at Philadelphia. Cataloged by the Wexler Team as 1960 1¢ Pr WDDR-017.

Die Markers

• Obverse: A short die gouge can be found on the bottom front of the bust. Reverse: A die scratch runs SSW to NNE near the center of the 1st Memorial bay.

Attribution History

• Discovered by Wexler Team

External References