1969-S Doubled Die Reverse WDDR-036

Description

Thirty-sixth doubled die reverse attributed for the 1969-S Proof Jefferson Nickel, WDDR-036 exhibits Class II Distorted Hub Doubling — a close spread visible on both E PLURIBUS UNUM and UNITED STATES OF AMERICA across Felix Schlag's Monticello reverse design. Class II doubling originates from a physical distortion within the working hub itself, producing a pattern where the spread magnitude and direction vary across the die surface according to the geometry of the hub's deformation. This differs fundamentally from Class I rotated doubling, where the entire design shifts uniformly. The Wexler variety identification is 1969-S WDDR-036 Proof, confirming this as a proof-only variety struck at the San Francisco Mint. Die markers supporting attribution include a die scratch above and to the right of the N in IN on the obverse, and a die scratch on the rim above UNUM on the reverse. Originally attributed by Brian Ribar — one of the most prolific Jefferson Nickel variety researchers — this variety joins an extensive catalog of proof DDR varieties from the 1969-S date. The late 1960s represent a peak period for proof Jefferson Nickel doubled die production, with the San Francisco Mint generating dozens of distinct varieties per date as the multi-impression hubbing process interacted with proof die preparation techniques. Thirty-six DDR varieties for a single proof date illustrates the extraordinary frequency of hub doubling events during this era and the thoroughness of researchers like Ribar in documenting each distinct die.

Attribution History

• Discovered by Brian Ribar
• Wexler Variety ID: 1969-S WDDR-036 Proof
• Expert attribution by Brian Ribar

External References