SKH-1c-1951-03 Spike Head

Description

The most recently reported spike head in this batch, SKH-1c-1951-03 was first documented on July 7, 2024, on a 1951 Proof Lincoln Wheat Cent. This late discovery date — more than seventy years after the coin was struck — illustrates the ongoing nature of die variety research, where new varieties continue to emerge as collectors apply modern imaging tools and fresh eyes to long-established series. The 1951 proof cent was part of proof sets with a mintage of 57,500 sets, a slight increase over the 1950 figure and continuing the upward trend in proof set demand that would accelerate through the 1950s. Three spike heads for the 1951 proof date places it in the lower range compared to the prolific 1950 proof spike head count, suggesting either fewer die clash events in 1951 proof production or less intensive examination to date. Die clash events in proof production occur when the press cycles without feeding a planchet between the polished dies, and the resulting spike on the proof surface carries the distinctive visual contrast of raised metal against mirror fields. Cataloged by Cuds on Coins with no known cross-references, this third entry establishes a growing catalog for the 1951 proof date. The fact that a variety reported as recently as July 2024 can document a coin struck in 1951 underscores the depth of material remaining to be classified in the Lincoln Wheat Cent die variety universe.

Attribution History

• Discovered by Greg Bowyer
• Cross reference number: none. 07/07/2024.
• Expert attribution by Cuds on Coins

External References