1961 Doubled Die Obverse WDDO-002

Description

Second cataloged doubled die obverse for the 1961 proof Franklin Half Dollar in the Wexler system, this variety displays a close Class II spread toward the center showing on IN GOD WE TRUST and very slightly on LIBERTY. The "toward center" spread direction indicates the secondary hub impression displaced inward relative to the primary, concentrating visible doubling on design elements between the die's center and rim — with IN GOD WE TRUST showing the strongest effect and LIBERTY exhibiting only very slight displacement. Die markers on the obverse include two short, vertical die gouges near the rim between GOD and WE. On the reverse, a die gouge touches the top of the center horizontal bar of the E in AMERICA. Wexler Variety ID: 1961 50¢ Pr WDDO-002. Philadelphia Mint proof production on 90% silver planchets at 12.50 grams. The Franklin Half Dollar series was approaching its conclusion in 1961 — John F. Kennedy's assassination in 1963 would prompt replacement of Ben Franklin's portrait with Kennedy's beginning in 1964, making proof doubled dies from these final Franklin years particularly appealing to collectors assembling complete variety sets. The close Class II spread requires careful examination under magnification to confirm the extra thickness on motto letters.

Attribution History

• Discovered by Dennis Fisher Cross References: None known
• None known; Wexler Variety ID: 1961 50¢ Pr WDDO-002
• Expert attribution by Wexler Team

External References