1968-S Repunched Mintmark WRPM-001

Description

Designated WRPM-001 by the Wexler team for the 1968-S Lincoln Memorial cent, this repunched mint mark variety shows an S/S South configuration and stands as one of the most thoroughly documented RPMs for this date thanks to an exceptionally rich set of die markers on both obverse and reverse. Cross-referenced as CONECA RPM #3 and Coppercoins 1968S-1MM-003, this variety benefits from multiple independent attributions that confirm its status as a genuine die variety. The obverse die markers are extensive and distinctive: die scratches are present in front of the eye, a small die gouge appears as a dot under the nose, a die gouge is positioned to the right of the lower second T in TRUST, north-south curving scratches and die gouges run under the RT in LIBERTY, providing a constellation of attribution points that make this die identifiable even on worn specimens where the repunched mint mark itself may be partially obscured. The reverse die carries equally diagnostic markers: a die gouge sits under the right side of the second A in AMERICA, a die scratch passes through the first U in UNUM, die scratches traverse the upper Lincoln Memorial below UNUM, and additional die scratches run NEN through the E in ONE and CE in CENT. This abundance of die markers across both sides of the coin is unusual for a single die pair and suggests that the die steel may have contained inclusions or surface imperfections that were exposed as the die was prepared and used. For attribution specialists, the combination of the S/S South repunched mint mark with this specific pattern of obverse and reverse markers constitutes an unmistakable fingerprint that eliminates any possibility of confusion with other 1968-S RPM varieties. The S/S South designation indicates that the first impression of the S mint mark was placed south (below) its final intended position, requiring the die preparer to deliver a correcting punch at the proper location, leaving a trace of the initial misplaced S visible beneath the final one. Struck at the San Francisco Mint on a 3.11-gram, 19mm planchet of 95% copper and 5% zinc.

Attribution History

• Discovered by Delma Romines Cross References: CONECA: RPM #3, Coppercoins: 1968S-1MM-003
• CONECA: RPM #3, Coppercoins: 1968S-1MM-003; Wexler Variety ID: 1968-S 1¢ WRPM-001
• Expert attribution by Wexler Team

External References