1961 Proof Doubled Die Reverse WDDR-010

Description

Occupying the subtle end of the 1961 Proof Lincoln Memorial Cent doubled die reverse spectrum, WDDR-010 is defined by an extremely close southwest spread visible on the upper portions of the U and N in UNITED. The extremely close classification places this variety at the limit of practical detection — the secondary hub impression sits so near the primary that the resulting displacement on the upper UN manifests as a slight directional thickening or shelf on the affected letter serifs rather than a clearly separated secondary outline. The southwest directionality of the spread further narrows the diagnostic zone to just two letters in the upper reverse legend, making this one of the most narrowly focused DDR varieties in the 1961 Proof sequence. Neither the obverse nor the reverse carries significant die markers, which means that the extremely close SW displacement on the upper U and N of UNITED is the sole criterion for attribution. Detection of this variety demands substantial magnification — typically 10x or higher — combined with carefully angled lighting that highlights the directional thickening on the letter edges. Proof surfaces provide some advantage in this regard, as the sharp, crisp letter edges produced by the Proof striking process make even minimal displacement more apparent than it would be on a circulated business strike. Collectors who pursue extremely close varieties like WDDR-010 consider them among the most demanding attribution challenges in the series, requiring patience, proper equipment, and a disciplined examination methodology.

Die Markers

• Obverse: None significant. Reverse: None significant.

Attribution History

• Discovered by Wexler Team

External References