1960 Doubled Die Obverse WDDO-004

Description

Cataloged by the Wexler Team as 1960 50c Pr WDDO-004, this proof Franklin Half Dollar displays a very close spread toward the center on IN GOD — a subtle convergent doubling where the secondary hub impression shifted inward, pushing the doubled image of the motto letters toward the coin's center. Obverse die markers include a short vertical die gouge to the right of the top of the R in LIBERTY. Remarkably, the reverse of this die pair is also a doubled die, listed in the Wexler files as 1960 50c Pr WDDR-004, creating a combination DDO/DDR variety where both faces of the coin exhibit hub doubling from independent die manufacturing events. The reverse doubling is notably stronger than the obverse, with a strong spread toward the center on USA, EPU (E PLURIBUS UNUM), the dots separating the motto words, the lower eagle, and HALF DOLLAR. A small vertical die gouge can be found inside the lower N in UNITED as a reverse die marker. This dual DDO/DDR combination substantially elevates the numismatic significance of the variety, as independent hub misalignment events affecting both dies in a single pairing is statistically uncommon. The Franklin Half Dollar was designed by John R. Sinnock, featuring Benjamin Franklin's portrait on the obverse and the Liberty Bell on the reverse, struck as a proof at the Philadelphia Mint in 1960 in 90% silver composition weighing 12.50 grams with a diameter of 30.6 mm. The 1960 proof Franklin Half Dollar was among the final years of the series, which ended in 1963 when the Kennedy Half Dollar replaced it following President Kennedy's assassination. The mirror-like proof surfaces enhance visibility of the convergent doubling on both faces, and collectors should examine both IN GOD on the obverse and the extensive reverse elements for the complete attribution experience.

Attribution History

• s:; Wexler Variety ID: 1960 50¢ Pr WDDO-004
• Expert attribution by Wexler Team

External References