It is die deterioration doubling. It can be most confusing on nickels but this is what happens after way too much use of the die.
I am pretty new at this and I also have major problems determining doubled die VS machine and/or die deterioration. I too have a 1983D that has reverse doubling and will try to post some photos for your advise. Mike
Mike.. This thread you posted in is from 2009.. Most of these members are no longer on CoinTalk. Start your own unique thread with a simple Title and use the same pictures.