1971-S Doubled Die Obverse WDDO-004

Description

Fourth in the Wexler sequence for 1971-S proof silver Eisenhower Dollar doubled die obverses, WDDO-004 (reference: 1971-S $1 Pr WDDO-004) was produced at the San Francisco Mint during the series' debut year. The Eisenhower Dollar's 38.1 mm diameter — the largest of any standard-issue U.S. coin since the Trade Dollar — gives the obverse design of Frank Gasparro an expansive field where hub misalignment events produce doubling across a wide physical area. Eisenhower's left-facing portrait dominates the obverse, flanked by LIBERTY above, IN GOD WE TRUST below, the date at the 7 o'clock position, and the S mintmark. Each of the documented 1971-S DDOs (numbering at least eleven) represents a unique working die whose hub impression deviated from perfect alignment, and WDDO-004's position in the lower portion of the catalog suggests it was among the earlier discoveries in what would become a well-populated variety family. The 40% silver proof composition (total weight 24.59 grams) gives these coins a distinct heft and surface quality compared to the copper-nickel clad versions struck at Philadelphia and Denver. Proof Ike Dollars from 1971-S were sold individually in special blue Mint packaging ("Blue Ikes") as well as in proof sets, and both formats yield attributed DDO specimens. Collectors seeking WDDO-004 should examine the fine lines of Eisenhower's hair detail and the lettering under magnification to isolate this die's specific spread characteristics.

Attribution History

• Wexler Variety ID: 1971-S $1 Pr WDDO-004
• Expert attribution by Wexler Team

External References