1968-S Doubled Die Obverse WDDO-025

Description

Marking the first year proofs were struck at San Francisco, WDDO-025 on the 1968-S Proof Jefferson Nickel presents Class I (Rotated Hub) counterclockwise spread on IN GOD WE TRUST, LIBERTY, the star, the date, and the designer's initials FS. The close counterclockwise displacement across five distinct obverse elements indicates a small-magnitude rotational shift between hub impressions, producing tight doubling visible on letter edges and fine design details. A die gouge inside the R of TRUST provides the primary obverse diagnostic marker. Notably, the reverse die paired with this obverse is itself a recognized doubled die variety — listed as 1968-S Proof 5-cent WDDR-011 — making this an uncommon DDO/DDR combination where both sides of the same coin carry doubled die attributions. The 1968-S proof represents a watershed moment in United States Mint history: after the three-year hiatus of 1965-1967 during which no proof coins were produced (replaced by Special Mint Sets), proof coinage resumed at the San Francisco Mint rather than returning to Philadelphia, establishing the proof production role that San Francisco would maintain for decades. Attributed by John A. Wexler.

Attribution History

• Discovered by John A. Wexler
• Wexler Variety ID: 1968-S WDDO-025 Proof
• Expert attribution by John A. Wexler

External References