SKH-1c-1950D-01A Spiked Head

Description

Representing the earliest documented die state for this spiked head on the 1950 Denver Mint Lincoln Wheat Cent, the "A" suffix on SKH-1c-1950D-01A designates Stage 1 of 3 — the point at which the spike projecting from Lincoln's head was at its sharpest and most well-defined. As dies continue in service, the spike typically evolves: it may broaden, shorten, or develop additional satellite cracks around its base. Three documented die stages for this variety trace the full progression of the die deterioration from its initial sharp formation through intermediate wear to its final state. Cross-referenced as Cohen Index 50D-56, this variety ties into the comprehensive Cohen die variety catalog for Lincoln Cents. The Stage 1 die state is generally the most desirable to collectors because the spike is crisply defined and the surrounding die surface shows minimal wear. Cataloged by Cuds on Coins, this Denver Mint spiked head offers collectors the opportunity to pursue all three die stages of a single variety — a collecting approach that documents the life cycle of a die failure from first appearance to final deterioration.

Attribution History

• Discovered by JC Stevens
• Cross reference number: Cohen Index 50D-56 stage 1 of 3. 03/25/2016.
• Expert attribution by Cuds on Coins

External References