SKH-1c-1946D-02 Spiked Head

Description

Dual-cataloged under both the Jim Curto cents catalog as JCc-1946D_042 and the Cohen Index as 46D-76, this spiked head variety on the 1946 Denver Mint Lincoln Wheat Cent benefits from attribution in two independent reference systems. Spiked head varieties occur when a die crack or chip develops near Lincoln's head, producing a raised spike extending from the portrait. The spike can manifest as a pointed projection from Lincoln's forehead, temple, or crown — the exact position depending on where the die metal fractured. The 1946-D cent was struck during the immediate post-World War II period, when the Mint was transitioning back to peacetime production after years of wartime demands. Denver's cent output in 1946 was substantial, and heavy die consumption increased the likelihood of die deterioration varieties. The JCc number (1946D_042) and Cohen Index (46D-76) both confirm this as a recognized variety with established provenance. Cataloged by Cuds on Coins, this second documented spiked head for 1946-D demonstrates a different die origin than the 03 variety, confirmed by their divergent JCc and Cohen references.

Attribution History

• Discovered by JC Stevens
• Cross reference number: JCc-1946D_042. Cohen Index 46D-76. 02/25/2017.
• Expert attribution by Cuds on Coins

External References