1972 Doubled Die Obverse WDDO-002

Description

Assigned Wexler variety identifier 1972 $1 WDDO-002, this doubled die obverse on the 1972 Eisenhower dollar — specifically the Type 3 reverse die pairing — represents one of the most actively sought DDO varieties in the large-dollar series. The 1972 Eisenhower dollar is distinguished by three reverse hub types used during production, designated Type 1, Type 2, and Type 3, each with measurably different positions of the Earth relative to the eagle's wing on the reverse. WDDO-002 paired with a Type 3 reverse places it in a specific die marriage context that collectors use for full attribution. Hub doubling on the Eisenhower dollar's obverse manifests on the bold, high-relief portrait of President Eisenhower designed by Chief Engraver Frank Gasparro, with potential spread visible on the lettering of LIBERTY, IN GOD WE TRUST, and the date numerals. The large 38.1-millimeter diameter of the Eisenhower dollar provides an expansive surface area where even moderate hub shifts produce visible doubling, making these varieties easier to detect than comparable anomalies on smaller denominations. Philadelphia struck these as business strikes for general circulation, and the 1972 date is particularly celebrated among variety collectors because of its association with the famous 1972 Type 2 reverse — though WDDO-002 stands on its own merits as a distinct obverse die variety regardless of the reverse pairing.

Attribution History

• Wexler Variety ID: 1972 $1 WDDO-002
• Expert attribution by Wexler Team

External References