1961 Doubled Die Obverse WDDO-020

Description

Attributed by Jennifer Casazza and cataloged as 1961 WDDO-020 Proof in the Wexler files, this proof Jefferson Nickel exhibits Class II + VI (Distorted and Distended Hub Doubling) — a combination mechanism where hub distortion and die expansion effects act simultaneously, producing a complex displacement pattern that varies in both magnitude and direction across the die face. Extra thickness shows on LIBERTY, the star, and the date, while a spread directed toward the center appears on IN GOD WE TRUST — a divergent pattern where some elements show bolstered thickness (close-spread) while others display directional separation, reflecting the dual nature of the combined Class II + VI mechanism. Obverse die markers include two short die scratches at the front edge of the collar east of IN, a short vertical die gouge between the upper portions of R and T in TRUST, and a die scratch from the upper right of the Y in LIBERTY. The collar-edge scratches near IN provide an especially precise location marker. The Class VI (Distended Hub Doubling) component occurs when the working die expands slightly after receiving the primary hub impression, causing the secondary impression to interact with a die that has changed dimensionally — a thermal or mechanical expansion effect that creates a radial displacement pattern overlaying the Class II distortion. The 1961 proof Jefferson Nickel was struck at the Philadelphia Mint in copper-nickel composition (75% copper, 25% nickel) weighing 5.0 grams with a 21.21 mm diameter. Felix Schlag designed both the Jefferson portrait and Monticello reverse. Jennifer Casazza's attribution work on this variety contributed to documenting one of the less common dual-mechanism combinations in the Jefferson Nickel proof series.

Attribution History

• Discovered by Jennifer Casazza
• Wexler Variety ID: 1961 WDDO-020 Proof
• Expert attribution by Jennifer Casazza

External References