1963 Doubled Die Obverse WDDO-029

Description

Bearing the Wexler Variety ID 1963 1c Pr WDDO-029, this proof doubled die obverse from the 1963 Lincoln Memorial Cent represents one of the higher-numbered entries in the proof DDO catalog for this date, indicating that the variety was documented after the initial wave of attributions and may reflect more subtle or localized doubling characteristics than the earlier-numbered proof varieties. Doubled die obverse varieties on proof Lincoln cents are produced through the same hubbing mechanism as on business strikes: the working hub impresses the obverse design into the die blank through multiple applications of pressure, and any rotational or translational misalignment between impressions creates a permanent secondary image in the die steel. However, the proof context adds several distinctive factors. The chrome-plated, highly polished dies used for proof production create mirror-like fields and frosted devices that can make even faint doubling more visible under magnification, since the reflective surfaces provide higher contrast against which secondary images stand out. The Philadelphia Mint produced 3,075,645 proof Lincoln cents in 1963, each struck at higher pressure than circulation issues, with individual die pairs typically retired after approximately 3,000 impressions to maintain the pristine surface quality expected of proof coinage. The year 1963 occupies a significant position in Lincoln cent history as the second-to-last year before the coin shortage of 1965-67 led to the suspension of proof set production and the elimination of mint marks. Collectors seeking WDDO-029 should examine the obverse legends, date, and portrait details under at least 10x magnification. The coin carries Victor David Brenner's obverse and Frank Gasparro's Memorial reverse on the standard 95% copper and 5% zinc composition.

Attribution History

• Wexler Variety ID: 1963 1¢ Pr WDDO-029
• Expert attribution by Wexler Team

External References