1970-S Doubled Die Obverse DDO-020

Description

Designated DDO-020 for the 1970-S Lincoln Memorial cent, this proof doubled die obverse displays light spread on LIBERTY, IN GOD WE TRUST, and the date — covering all three principal obverse design areas with subtle hub doubling. Cataloged as UVC-986 and DMR-035, this variety uses the Large Date obverse die (ODV-025) and was produced as a proof at the San Francisco Mint. The UVC number 986 is notably lower than those of surrounding DDO varieties in this sequence (many of which carry UVC numbers in the 2000s and 3000s), suggesting this particular die was cataloged relatively early in the attribution system's development despite being assigned a higher DDO sequence number — an indication that DDO numbering and UVC assignment follow independent chronologies. Light spread across LIBERTY, the motto, and date means collectors must examine each area carefully under magnification to detect the subtle separation between primary and secondary hub impressions. Proof surfaces can enhance detection by providing the mirror-like contrast needed to reveal fine doubled edges on letter serifs and numeral strokes. DDO-020 joins the extensive roster of proof Large Date DDOs documented for the 1970-S date, reflecting the concentration of doubled die varieties within proof die production at the San Francisco Mint. The breadth of the doubling distribution — touching all major design areas rather than concentrating on one — helps distinguish this variety from DDOs exhibiting more localized doubling patterns.

Die Markers

• UVC-986; DMR-035

External References