SKH-1c-1952-07 Spike Head

Description

Seventh documented spike head variety for the 1952 Philadelphia Mint Lincoln Wheat Cent, this die defect manifests as a raised projection extending from Lincoln's portrait — the result of a die crack or chip near the head that creates a void filling with metal during striking. Spike head varieties are visually distinctive and easily identified, making them popular with collectors who specialize in die break varieties on Lincoln Cents. Seven documented spiked heads for a single date reflects active specialist attention to the 1952-P cent population, a date produced in substantial quantities during the post-war economic expansion. The spike typically extends from the top or back of Lincoln's head, though the exact location varies between individual dies. Each spiked head represents a unique die defect — the crack or chip forms at a slightly different point on each die, ensuring no two spiked head varieties are identical even on coins of the same date and mint. The 1952 Wheat Cent is part of the late era of this beloved series, which concluded in 1958 after nearly fifty years of continuous production with Brenner's Wheat Ears reverse. Cataloged by Cuds on Coins.

Attribution History

• Discovered by Rick Guined
• Cross reference: none. 04/02/2017. Cross reference: none. 04/17/2025.
• Expert attribution by Cuds on Coins

External References