SKH-1c-1948-02 Spiked Head

Description

Cross-referenced as JCc-1948_094 in the Jim Caldwell catalog, SKH-1c-1948-02 documents the second spiked head variety on the 1948 Lincoln Wheat Cent struck at the Philadelphia Mint. A spiked head occurs when a die gouge, chip, or surface defect near Lincoln's portrait creates a raised spike of metal that appears to project from his head on the finished coin. The visual effect ranges from subtle — a thin sliver barely visible without magnification — to dramatic spikes extending from the bust. The Caldwell cross-reference JCc-1948_094 places this variety among documented 1948 Lincoln Cent die varieties alongside doubled dies, repunched mint marks, and other anomalies. Philadelphia Mint production on standard bronze planchets. The 1948 Wheat Cent belongs to the postwar era of Lincoln Cent production, a period of high mintage and active variety research. Spiked heads are among the more visually striking die varieties because they alter the portrait itself, appealing to collectors who value the intersection of die mechanics and artistry. Cataloged and verified by Cuds on Coins.

Attribution History

• Discovered by JC Stevens
• Cross reference number: JCc-1948_094. 12/16/2023.
• Expert attribution by Cuds on Coins

External References