SKH-1c-1952-02D Spiked Head

Description

Die chips accumulating on Lincoln's head create one of the most recognizable error varieties in the Wheat Cent series — the spiked head, where a raised spike or horn-like projection extends from the portrait. On this 1952 Philadelphia Mint Lincoln Wheat Cent, a die chip positioned on or near Lincoln's head produced the distinctive spike that gives the variety its name. Cataloged by Cuds on Coins as SKH-1c-1952-02D, the variety is cross-referenced to Cohen Index number JCc-1952_085, placing it within Jason Cuvelier's comprehensive die variety catalog for Lincoln cents. Die chips form when small fragments of die steel break away, leaving voids in the die surface that fill with metal during striking and appear as raised lumps or projections on the finished coin. When a chip occurs at the top of Lincoln's head, the resulting spike can resemble a horn, thorn, or antenna — a visually arresting anomaly that makes spiked heads among the most popular error varieties for Lincoln Cent collectors. The dual cataloging under both the Cuds on Coins and Cohen Index systems reflects the broad research coverage these popular varieties receive from multiple attribution organizations.

Attribution History

• Cross reference number: JCc-1952_085. SKH-1c-1952-02D. 01/01/2013.
• Expert attribution by Cuds on Coins

External References