1972-S Doubled Die Reverse WDDR-002

Description

Attributed by Timothy Wissert and cataloged as 1972-S WDDR-002 Proof in the Wexler Doubled Die Files, this proof Jefferson Nickel displays Class II (Distorted Hub Doubling) with two distinct spread patterns across the reverse: a constant spread toward the center on E PLURIBUS UNUM, and a closer spread toward the center on STATES OF AMERICA and the ELLO of MONTICELLO where the doubling increases from left to right along with the top and right side of the building. The dual-pattern behavior — constant spread on EPU but variable and intensifying spread from left to right on the other elements — indicates a hub displacement geometry that produced different effective separation magnitudes across different zones of the die face, likely due to a combination of linear displacement and slight rotation. Obverse die markers include a small short vertical die gouge in the field at the top of Jefferson's head and a small die gouge at the rim between the N of IN and the G of GOD. The reverse carries a small die gouge (dot) to the lower left of the C of CENTS. The proof Jefferson Nickel was struck at the San Francisco Mint in 1972 in copper-nickel composition (75% copper, 25% nickel) weighing 5.0 grams with a 21.21 mm diameter — the San Francisco Mint having assumed exclusive proof production by this date. Felix Schlag's Jefferson portrait and Monticello design provided the die framework. Timothy Wissert's attribution work contributes to the documentation of San Francisco proof varieties, and the proof surface's mirror finish enhances visibility of the center-directed spread on EPU and the progressive left-to-right doubling across the building and inscription elements.

Attribution History

• Discovered by Timothy Wissert
• Wexler Variety ID: 1972-S WDDR-002 Proof
• Expert attribution by Timothy Wissert

External References