1969-S Doubled Die Reverse WDDR-002

Description

Classified as Class II Distorted Hub Doubling, this proof-only doubled die reverse on the 1969-S Jefferson Nickel shows very close doubling on E PLURIBUS UNUM — a manifestation of hub distortion during the die sinking process. Class II doubling occurs when the hub itself becomes slightly distorted between impressions, causing design elements to shift in a non-uniform pattern that typically produces close, spread-like doubling rather than the dramatic separation seen in Class I pivoted hub varieties. The 1969-S was struck exclusively as a proof issue at the San Francisco Mint, where dies received meticulous preparation for the proof coining process. Despite this controlled environment, hub distortion during die manufacturing could still introduce doubling before the dies ever reached the press. Die markers for attribution include a die gouge to the upper right of the first U of PLURIBUS and a short die gouge above the right side of M of AMERICA on the reverse, providing secondary diagnostics beyond the doubling itself. Cross-referenced as Wexler Variety ID 1969-S WDDR-002 Proof, this variety was documented by John W. Wexler, whose systematic classification system for doubled dies has become the standard reference in American numismatics. The 1969-S shares a date with one of the most famous error coins in the Lincoln Cent series — the 1969-S DDO — making all 1969-S die varieties objects of heightened collector interest.

Attribution History

• Discovered by John W. Wexler
• Wexler Variety ID: 1969-S WDDR-002 Proof
• Expert attribution by John W. Wexler

External References