1964 Proof Doubled Die Obverse WDDO-027

Description

Reaching the twenty-seventh entry in the Proof-prefixed doubled die obverse catalog for the 1964 Lincoln cent, this WDDO-027 represents one of the higher-numbered varieties in a sequence that continues to grow as researchers examine additional specimens from the 3,950,762 proof coins produced at the Philadelphia Mint. Higher-numbered WDDO varieties are often discovered later than the low numbers, either because their doubling is more subtle and harder to detect, or because fewer specimens have been examined in the particular die state where the doubling is most visible. Progressive die wear during a proof die's approximately 3,000-strike service life can alter the appearance of hub doubling as the die surfaces evolve through use. No specific doubling description, die markers, cross-references, or expert attributions have been published for this variety. Collectors pursuing the higher-numbered 1964 proof DDO varieties face both a research challenge and a logistical one: not only must the subtle doubling be detected and correctly matched to its catalog entry, but the source material — 1964 proof sets — must be acquired in sufficient quantity to provide a reasonable search population. Uncertified proof sets and individual proof cents from dealer junk bins can be cost-effective sources for variety hunting, as many proof coins remain unexamined for die varieties decades after their original sale. Struck on a polished 3.11-gram, 19mm bronze planchet of 95% copper and 5% tin-zinc.

Attribution History

• Discovered by Wexler Team

External References