1971-S Proof Doubled Die Obverse WDDO-004

Description

Strong Class V clockwise spread from a pivot at approximately 5:00 defines this 1971-S Proof Doubled Die Obverse WDDO-004, where the rotational fulcrum sits slightly left of center-bottom — a geometry that concentrates the greatest angular displacement in the upper-right quadrant of the design where LIBERTY is located. The strong spread on LIBERTY and IN GOD WE TRUST demonstrates that the 5:00 pivot positioned these inscription elements far enough from the rotational axis to accumulate meaningful doubled edges under magnification. A small die gouge between the lower I and N of IN provides an obverse die marker that collectors can use as a preliminary screening indicator before examining the more labor-intensive doubled die features. No reverse die markers have been noted, indicating either a clean reverse die or markers too minor to document. The 5:00 pivot differentiates this variety from WDDO-002's 6:00 pivot — though both are Class V clockwise doubled dies, the one-hour shift in rotational axis produces a measurably different pattern of affected design elements. Where the 6:00 pivot distributes displacement symmetrically across the top of the design, the 5:00 pivot skews the maximum offset slightly toward LIBERTY's end of the obverse, creating an asymmetric spread pattern that constitutes the primary diagnostic distinction between these two varieties. Proof striking at the San Francisco Mint preserved the strong Class V clockwise displacement with the surface precision characteristic of proof production — polished dies impressing polished planchets at pressures sufficient to capture every nuance of the hub doubling on the finished coin.

Die Markers

• Obverse: A small die gouge can be found between the lower I and N of IN. Reverse: None noted.

Attribution History

• Discovered by Wexler Team

External References