2005 Doubled Die Obverse WDDO-023

Description

Attributed by Edward Fletcher, Jr. and cataloged as 2005-P WDDO-023 Satin Finish Ocean in View in the Wexler Doubled Die Files, this Jefferson Nickel exhibits Class VIII Tilted Hub Doubling with a very close spread on IN GOD WE TRUST and a better spread on the numeral 2 of the date — the stronger doubling on the date digit suggests the 2's position on the die face was further from the tilt axis than the motto, producing greater displacement at that distance. Obverse die markers include a die dot on Jefferson's forehead above the right eyebrow, a small die dot above the B of LIBERTY, and a small die dot to the upper left of the P mintmark — three dot-type markers distributed across the obverse that create a triangulated identification system. The reverse of this die pair is itself a doubled die, listed separately as 2005-P OIV 5¢ WDDR-048, creating a DDO/DDR combination variety that enhances its significance for collectors. The "Satin Finish" designation is critically important — this identifies the coin as a Satin Finish specimen from the 2005 Mint Set, produced with a special matte-like surface treatment that gives a different visual character from standard business strikes or proofs. The "Ocean in View" reverse is one of the two 2005 Westward Journey designs, depicting the Pacific Ocean as seen by the Lewis and Clark Expedition upon reaching the coast, designed by Joe Fitzgerald and Donna Weaver. Struck at the Philadelphia Mint in copper-nickel composition (75% copper, 25% nickel) weighing 5.00 grams with a 21.21 mm diameter, the satin finish specimens were available only in the 2005 uncirculated mint set. The DDO/DDR combination on a satin finish Westward Journey nickel creates a multilayered collectible at the intersection of variety, surface finish, and commemorative design categories.

Attribution History

• Discovered by Edward Fletcher, Jr.
• Wexler Variety ID: 2005 P WDDO-023 Satin Finish Ocean in View
• Expert attribution by Edward Fletcher, Jr.

External References