1965 Doubled Die Reverse DDR-006

Description

Light triple spread on stars under STATES combined with double spread on UNITED STATES OF AMERICA, the remaining stars, and stars between the rays distinguishes this sixth doubled die reverse for the 1965 Kennedy Half Dollar, attributed by VarietyVista with die markers UVC-388 and DMR-015. Die stage documentation shows Stage A with a die gouge above the star under the I of AMERICA in Early Die State and the obverse also in EDS, Stage B at Mid Die State (unconfirmed), and Stage C at Late Die State (unconfirmed). The SMS (Special Mint Set) notation in the comments indicates this variety is found on the distinctive Special Mint Set coins produced from 1965 through 1967 as a substitute for proof coins during the silver-to-clad transition period. SMS coins were struck with greater care than standard business strikes but using a different process than traditional proofs, giving them a satin-like finish. The 1965 Kennedy Half Dollar was struck in the 40% silver clad composition (outer layers of 80% silver over a 21% silver core) during the first year of the Coinage Act of 1965, which eliminated silver from dimes and quarters while reducing the half dollar's silver content. Triple spread on the stars — showing three discernible impressions — indicates the die received at least three hubbing impressions with detectable misalignment between them, a more complex hubbing history than the standard two-impression doubling found on most DDR varieties.

Die Markers

• UVC-388
• DMR-015
• Stage A:
• Die gouge above star under I of AMERICA – EDS
• Obverse is EDS
• Stage B:
• MDS (unconfirmed)
• Stage C:
• LDS (unconfirmed)

Attribution History

• Discovered by Timothy Wissert
• Expert attribution by VarietyVista

External References