1981-D Doubled Die Obverse WDDO-001

Description

Bearing dual cross-references to both the Coppercoins catalog (1981D-1DO-001) and the Wexler system (WDDO-001), the 1981-D Doubled Die Obverse is one of the better-documented Denver Mint doubled dies from the early 1980s Lincoln Memorial cent series. Extra thickness is visible on the letters of IN GOD WE TRUST and LIBERTY, with separation showing on the letters of GOD — characteristics consistent with hub doubling that affected multiple design elements across the obverse simultaneously. The obverse die carries distinctive circular die scratches throughout the bust area, along with three nearly parallel die scratches running north to south between the O of GOD and the top of Lincoln's head. These obverse die markers serve as primary identifiers for authentication, allowing attribution even on worn specimens where the doubling itself may be less distinct. On the reverse, a die scratch runs west-northwest from the top of the N in UNITED to the rim, providing a secondary confirmation point. The 1981-D cent was struck at the Denver Mint from 95% copper, 5% zinc planchets during a period when the D mintmark was still hand-punched into individual working dies. Cross-referenced as Coppercoins: 1981D-1DO-001; Wexler Variety ID: 1981-D 1 cent WDDO-001. Attribution by Wexler Team.

Attribution History

• Discovered by William Slaughter Cross References: Coppercoins: 1981D-1DO-001
• Coppercoins: 1981D-1DO-001; Wexler Variety ID: 1981-D 1¢ WDDO-001
• Expert attribution by Wexler Team

External References