SKH-1c-1943-01 Spiked Head

Description

First cataloged spiked head for the 1943 Philadelphia Lincoln Wheat Cent, SKH-1c-1943-01 is cross-referenced as Cohen Index 43-74. The 1943 steel cent — struck on zinc-coated low-carbon steel during the wartime copper shortage — presented unique challenges for die longevity, as the harder planchet material inflicted greater wear on working dies with each strike. Spiked heads result from die surface damage near Lincoln's portrait that creates a raised metallic projection on struck coins, and the accelerated deterioration inherent to steel cent production likely increased the probability of surface gouges responsible for these anomalies. As the leading entry in the 1943 spiked head catalog, SKH-1c-1943-01 holds foundational significance for collectors building a comprehensive set for the wartime steel year. Cohen Index 43-74 places this variety within the established Cohen framework for Lincoln Cent die anomalies, providing a secondary identification number for cross-referencing. Philadelphia Mint, zinc-coated steel composition. Cataloged and verified by Cuds on Coins.

Attribution History

• Discovered by JC Stevens
• Cross reference number: Cohen Index 43-74. 03/26/2016
• Expert attribution by Cuds on Coins

External References