SKH-1c-1960D-02(SD) (SD) Spiked Head

Description

Bearing the CudsOnCoins designation SKH-1c-1960D-02(SD) and cross-referenced to the Cohen Index as Sm60D-85 with a documentation date of September 12, 2017, this spiked head variety is found on the 1960-D Lincoln Memorial Cent Small Date. The spike extends from the top of Lincoln's head as a raised line of metal, created when a die crack radiating outward from the portrait fills with metal under striking pressure. The Cohen Index reference Sm60D-85 confirms independent documentation of this die beyond the CudsOnCoins catalog. Spiked head varieties are a subcategory of die cracks that specifically emanate from Lincoln's head, and they hold particular appeal because the spike visually alters the presidential portrait in an immediately noticeable way. The Small Date subtype was introduced at Denver partway through 1960, and dies carrying the new hub design were pressed into service rapidly to meet production demands. The stress of continuous striking at high speed promoted the development of die cracks, with the high-relief area around Lincoln's head being especially vulnerable to fracture propagation.

Attribution History

• Discovered by Juan Aguerre
• Cross reference: Cohen Index Sm60D-85. 09/12/2017.
• Expert attribution by Cuds on Coins

External References