1974-D Doubled Die Obverse DDO-002

Description

Attributed as 1974-D DDO-002, this doubled die obverse variety from the Denver Mint displays extra thickness on the letters WE TRUST from the motto "IN GOD WE TRUST" and on the numeral 4 in the date. The doubling manifests as a subtle but measurable thickening of the affected design elements rather than a dramatic separation or shelf — a presentation consistent with a minor hub doubling event during die manufacture. The die carries the Universal Variety Code UVC-2321 and Die Marker Reference DMR-005, providing standardized identifiers for attribution purposes. A key diagnostic for DDO-002 is its obverse die variety classification: ODV-031, which corresponds to the "Thin Date" (also known as "Small Date") variety of the 1974-D cent. The 1974-D date is known in both Thin Date and standard configurations, with the distinction visible in the proportions and spacing of the date numerals. Additionally, the mintmark on DDO-002 is positioned farther east (to the right) than on DDO-001, providing a quick visual reference point for collectors sorting between the two doubled die obverse varieties cataloged for this date. DDO-002's doubled die characteristics, while less dramatic than some of the more famous Lincoln cent doubled dies, are nonetheless diagnostically consistent and reproducible across all specimens struck from this die. The Denver Mint's 1974 production of approximately 4.24 billion cents — among the highest single-facility mintages in Lincoln cent history — meant that hundreds of die pairs were employed throughout the year, and the hubbing process for each die presented an opportunity for the slight misalignment that produces doubled die varieties. Collectors should examine the WE TRUST lettering and the date under at least 5x magnification, comparing the thickness of these elements against a normal 1974-D specimen to confirm the doubling.

Die Markers

• UVC-2321; DMR-005

External References