SKH-1c-1953S-01 Spiked Head

Description

At Stage 4 of 4, this spiked head on the 1953 San Francisco Mint Lincoln Wheat Cent captures the final documented die state — the latest stage of deterioration before the die was retired or the spike became indistinguishable from general wear. Cross-referenced as Cohen Index 53S-71D, this variety connects to die pair 71D in the Cohen catalog. The progression through four die stages documents the full life cycle of this spike from initial formation through intermediate development to its terminal condition, where maximum die wear and spike evolution are recorded. Stage 4 specimens typically show the broadest spike profile and the most extensive secondary cracking around the spike's base. The San Francisco Mint struck Lincoln Wheat Cents through 1955, its final year of cent production before transitioning exclusively to proof coinage in 1968. Cataloged by Cuds on Coins, this 1953-S spiked head at its terminal die state offers collectors a window into how long the Mint continued using deteriorated dies during the final years of San Francisco business strike cent production.

Attribution History

• Discovered by JC Stevens
• Cross reference number: Cohen Index 53S-71D Stage 4 of 4. 06/01/2016.
• Expert attribution by Cuds on Coins

External References