1971-S Doubled Die Obverse WDDO-031

Description

Discovered by Tony Russo, the 1971-S WDDO-031 is a proof Jefferson nickel showing very close Class II distorted hub doubling on IN GOD WE TRUST, LIBERTY, the star, the date, and the designer's initials FS — the mark of Felix Schlag, who created the original Jefferson nickel design in 1938. The breadth of affected elements, spanning motto, legend, decorative device, date, and initials, indicates the hub distortion influenced nearly the entire obverse field. Very close spread requires careful magnification to resolve, as the primary and secondary images sit in tight proximity. This die is also paired with a doubled die reverse, cataloged as 1971-S Pr 5¢ WDDR-055, giving specimens from this die marriage doubled die varieties on both obverse and reverse. No obverse die markers have been noted. The reverse die pairing is confirmed in the Wexler catalog. Cross-referenced as Wexler Variety ID 1971-S WDDO-031 Proof. Dual-sided doubled die pairings are uncommon and carry heightened collector interest, as both faces of the coin bear distinct hub doubling from separate misalignment events.

Attribution History

• Discovered by Tony Russo
• Wexler Variety ID: 1971-S WDDO-031 Proof
• Expert attribution by Tony Russo

External References