1961 Doubled Die Obverse WDDO-022

Description

Bearing a noteworthy catalog history, the 1961 WDDO-022 is a proof Jefferson nickel doubled die obverse attributed by Brian A. Ribar. This variety was formerly listed as WDDO-024 and replaces the original WDDO-022 listing, which was delisted after being determined to be a doubled working hub rather than a true doubled die. Close Class II distorted hub doubling shows on IN GOD WE TRUST, requiring careful examination under magnification to detect the subtle displacement. As a proof issue, this coin was struck on polished planchets using polished dies at the San Francisco Mint, producing mirror-like fields and frosted design elements. The obverse carries a short slanted die scratch on Jefferson's collar as a pickup point, while the reverse exhibits a die scratch above UNI of UNITED and another near the rim below ICA of AMERICA. The renumbering history illustrates the self-correcting nature of the Wexler catalog, where ongoing research can reclassify or delist varieties as the distinction between doubled working hubs and true doubled dies becomes better understood. Proof doubled dies are appealing because mirror fields make even close doubling more readily visible.

Attribution History

• Discovered by Brian A. Ribar
• Wexler Variety ID: 1961 WDDO-022 Proof
• Expert attribution by Brian A. Ribar

External References