1952 (D) Lincoln Wheat Cent - SKH-1c-1952D-03 Spiked Head

Description

Accurate spiked head attribution requires more than confirming a spike exists — it demands matching the specimen to a specific cataloged die through careful measurement of the spike's position, angle, and length relative to fixed points on Lincoln's portrait. SKH-1c-1952D-03, assigned Cohen Index 52D-58, is the third documented spiked head die for the 1952-D Lincoln Wheat Cent. Distinguishing it from other cataloged 1952-D spiked head dies requires methodical comparison: the spike's point of origin along the portrait outline, its angle relative to vertical, and its length from base to tip all serve as diagnostic markers. Secondary die cracks, polish lines, and other die-specific features visible under magnification further narrow identification. Attributors typically work at 5x to 10x magnification, comparing specimens against published photographs and descriptions. Cohen 52D-58 enables collectors to confirm not just that they hold a spiked head cent, but which specific die produced it — a distinction essential for registry sets and comprehensive die variety study.

Cross References

• Cross reference number: Cohen Index 52D-58. 02/13/2017.

External References