1982-D Doubled Die Obverse WDDO-001

Description

Cataloged under the Wexler attribution system as WDDO-001, this 1982-D Doubled Die Obverse appears on the Small Date zinc variety — one of the seven distinct Lincoln cent subtypes produced during the landmark 1982 composition transition year. A very close spread towards the center is visible on the date digits, with light extra thickness showing on the letters of IN GOD WE TRUST and LIBERTY, characteristics consistent with Class II distorted hub doubling. The die carries an extensive set of authenticating markers: on the obverse, a die gouge sits north of the right side of the mintmark and a small die gouge (dot) appears below the U of TRUST. The reverse markers are equally detailed — a light die scratch extends west-northwest from the upper left of the T in CENT, and a diagonal die gouge can be found above the right cornice of the Lincoln Memorial. The Small Date zinc designation is critical for attribution, as it distinguishes this variety from the Large Date zinc and copper varieties also struck at Denver in 1982. The mid-1982 composition change from 95% copper (3.1g) to copper-plated zinc (2.5g) created an unprecedented situation where seven distinct cent varieties coexisted within a single calendar year. No cross-references to other attribution systems are known. Attribution by Wexler Team.

Attribution History

• Discovered by William Slaughter Cross References: None known
• None known; Wexler Variety ID: 1982-D 1¢ WDDO-001
• Expert attribution by Wexler Team

External References