SKH-1c-1950-12 Spike Head

Description

Bearing sequence number -12, this variety is the twelfth distinct spike head die cataloged for the 1950 proof Lincoln Wheat Cent — a remarkable count revealing how many die pairs were consumed within a proof run limited to 51,386 sets. SKH-1c-1950-12 carries Cohen Index 50-58A, placing it within a dense cluster of documented 1950 proof varieties. The high sequence number indicates the Mint rotated through numerous obverse dies during proof production, each serving for limited impressions before retirement. When a crack developed around Lincoln's head, the die might continue briefly — producing spike head coins — before replacement. Each of the twelve cataloged spike head dies displays unique crack geometry: the position where the spike emerges, its angle, and the length of the raised fin all serve as diagnostic markers. The depth of documentation for the 1950 date makes it one of the richest fields within the Lincoln Cent spike head series, reflecting both the proof resumption year's significance and the cataloging work that followed.

Attribution History

• Discovered by Earl Williams
• Cross reference number: Cohen Index 50-58A. 06/06/2016.
• Expert attribution by Cuds on Coins

External References