1970-S Doubled Die Obverse WDDO-030

Description

A Proof-only variety on the 1970-S Large Date Lincoln Memorial cent, WDDO-030 exhibits Class I counterclockwise spread — a rotational hub displacement where the secondary design image is offset in a counterclockwise direction from the primary impression. North-to-south die scratches in the first bay of the Lincoln Memorial on the reverse provide a die-specific marker that anchors the reverse die's identity: these vertically oriented scratches appear as raised lines on struck coins within the leftmost bay of the Memorial's facade, a relatively clean area on normal dies where any anomalous features stand out clearly. A die gouge above the tenth bay of the Memorial adds a second reverse diagnostic — a raised mark above the rightmost bay that is unique to this specific reverse die. Together, these two reverse markers create a paired identification framework that complements the obverse doubling. No cross-references to CONECA, Crawford, or Coppercoins have been published, placing WDDO-030's documentation within the Wexler system exclusively. The Proof format means this variety was struck on polished planchets with specially prepared dies under controlled conditions, and the resulting surface quality preserves fine die details — including subtle hub doubling — more faithfully than business strike production. Collectors examining 1970-S Proof Large Date cents for this variety should inspect the first and tenth bays of the Memorial on the reverse first, using the die scratches and gouge as rapid screening criteria before attempting to resolve the counterclockwise spread on the obverse. If both reverse markers are present, the coin warrants careful obverse examination for the Class I doubling.

Attribution History

• Discovered by Delma K. Romines Cross References: None known
• None known; Wexler Variety ID: 1970-S 1¢ Pr WDDO-030
• Expert attribution by Wexler Team

External References