Going through some Kennedy half dollars that I have had tucked away for over 40 years and I think I found 2 that are double dies - a 1964d & 1973d. I'm fairly certain they are, especially the 1964 (in separate thread). The 1973 is more subtle. I am new to this so want some expert opinions. Thank you
From your photos, it appears to me to be just a worn die with machine doubling. NAV (No Added Value) IMHO. The learning curve for new collectors on doubled dies is a steep one (I'm far from the top), but with time and experience, you will be able to tell the difference. Study the online material describing it and then just keep your eyes open. Even then, some of the site that attribute some DD, I think have it wrong.
I see what you are saying Mountain Man but I'm a bit confused. When I look at TES in states and the stars below it, it looks more like mechanical doubling to me. But when I look at the 7, the D in GOD and the I & N in IN, they look like split serifs to me. Some of the other letters may or may not - hard to tell. Am I seeing that wrong? Does mechanical doubling cause split serifs? Could a coin have both? Thx
I really don't know what everyone else is seeing. This coin shows extra thickness to the devices. It shows notching and it has split serifs. Along with separation lines. The reverse is die deterioration. But the obverse is a doubled die. Check it against these at Variety Vista. @coingambler66 http://varietyvista.com/12 Kennedy Halves/DDOs 1973-D.htm
In order to make a good attribution I think you need some additional photos, some that are a lot clearer. There is to much reflection and glare, a big problem with your lighting, a lot of phantom doubling.
Need clearer pictures to determine on the DDO. And yes, on your question if a coin can be a Double Die and also have Mechanical Doubling. Look at the coin linked below on the letters STATES OF AMERICA for Mechanical Doubling (Strike Doubling or Machine Doubling). 1973-S DDR-003 (varietyvista.com)
Absolutely. And quite a few of them do when you examine them real close. But you can't hang your hat on split serifs. This is all strike doubling. In traditional or double-squeeze die doubling the top or superior image is always going to be intact and not foreshortened either lengthwise or widthwise. Pay attention to that, here, my 1972 DDO, and you'll see what I mean...
Actually I think real doubled die coins can be struck with a loose die, which would cause both to be present.
Here's a quad I own sal http://www.varietyvista.com/09d WQ Vol 4 DC/01b LC Doubled Dies Vol 2/1961PDDR009.htm
I see the strike doubling most prominently under the base of the 2. Illustrative example of these coexisting.