SKH-1c-2018-03 Spiked Head

Description

Philadelphia Mint production of 2018 Lincoln Shield Cents generated this third documented spiked head, a die clash variety where reverse design elements transferred into the obverse die create a raised protrusion extending from Lincoln's portrait. During normal coining operations, the obverse and reverse dies strike opposite sides of the planchet simultaneously. When a planchet fails to feed and the dies contact each other directly, the sharp relief of the Union Shield reverse impresses into the obverse die surface. Subsequent strikes from this clashed die produce coins bearing a spike-like projection from Lincoln's head — the hallmark of the spiked head variety. The 2018-P cent was struck during a period when cent production remained in the billions annually despite ongoing debates about the denomination's economic utility, ensuring that vast numbers of die pairs were consumed and die clash events occurred with regularity. Three documented spiked heads for 2018-P represents a moderate count, consistent with the year's production profile. SKH-1c-2018-03 is cataloged by Cuds on Coins. Collectors distinguish individual spiked heads by the precise location, angle, and length of the spike relative to Lincoln's profile, making each entry a distinct collectible within the broader series.

Attribution History

• Discovered by Earl M
• Cross reference: none. 09/08/2018.
• Expert attribution by Cuds on Coins

External References