SKH-1c-1950-05 Spike Head

Description

Proof coinage from 1950 is prized for its extremely low mintage of just 51,386 sets, and this fifth spiked head variety for the 1950 proof Lincoln Wheat Cent adds die variety significance to an already scarce issue. A spiked head results from a die chip or break near Lincoln's portrait that creates a spike-like projection from the head on struck coins. The proof format means each coin was struck on a polished planchet with mirror-finish dies, preserving the spike and surrounding die characteristics with exceptional fidelity. This variety carries two Cohen Index cross-references — Cohen Index 50-55 and Cohen Index 50-64 — an unusual dual attribution suggesting the spiked head die may have been documented under two separate catalog entries within the Cohen proof die variety reference system. The pairing of two Cohen numbers with a single Cuds on Coins designation highlights how different attribution systems sometimes catalog overlapping features independently. With 1950 proof sets among the lowest-mintage postwar issues, any die variety on this date combines rarity of the proof format with the additional scarcity of a specific die state. Cataloged as SKH-1c-1950-05 by Cuds on Coins.

Attribution History

• Discovered by JC Stevens
• Cross reference number: Cohen Index 50-55. 03/18/2016. Cross reference number: Cohen Index 50-64. 03/18/2016.
• Expert attribution by Cuds on Coins

External References