1971-S Doubled Die Obverse WDDO-029

Description

Exhibiting close Class II and Class V doubling on LIBERTY, the star, the date, and Felix Schlag's designer initials FS, this 1971-S Proof Jefferson Nickel WDDO-029 combines two distinct doubling mechanisms on a single die. Class II doubling results from hub distortion during die sinking, while Class V involves a pivoted or offset secondary impression — their co-occurrence indicates multiple anomalies during the hubbing process that together produced the visible spread. Attributed by Brian A. Ribar and cross-referenced as Wexler 1971-S WDDO-029 Proof, this variety carries a die dot between the E of WE and the first T of TRUST on the obverse, with die scratches on the rim above E P of E PLURIBUS UNUM on the reverse. The 1971-S proof nickel was struck during the final years before the Mint transitioned to copper-nickel clad production methods that altered die preparation procedures. Twenty-nine cataloged doubled die obverses for the 1971-S proof nickel reflects the extraordinary depth of variety research applied to early 1970s San Francisco proof issues, where controlled production runs and collector preservation created ideal conditions for systematic die study.

Attribution History

• Discovered by Brian A. Ribar
• Wexler Variety ID: 1971-S WDDO-029 Proof
• Expert attribution by Brian A. Ribar

External References