SKH-1c-1952-01 Spike Head

Description

Cross-referenced to Cohen Index 52-63B Stage 2 of 6, this sole documented spiked head for the 1952 Proof Lincoln Wheat Cent captures an early stage in the life of a die that progressed through six documented states of deterioration. Stage 2 of 6 means this spiked head appeared relatively early in the die's service, before subsequent cracking and wear altered the spike's appearance through stages 3 through 6 — offering collectors the chance to trace a single die's degradation across multiple coins. Spiked heads form when a die crack radiates outward from Lincoln's head, creating a raised line that resembles a spike or horn on struck coins. On a proof issue, the mirror-like fields make such die cracks exceptionally visible, amplifying the visual drama of the spike against the reflective surface. The Cohen Index designation 52-63B identifies the specific die pair within the comprehensive die study framework for 1952 proof cents. Philadelphia struck proof Wheat Cents for inclusion in annual proof sets during this era, using carefully prepared dies that were nonetheless subject to cracking under repeated striking. Cuds on Coins documented this variety in February 2018.

Attribution History

• Discovered by JC Stevens
• Cross reference number: Cohen Index 52-63B Stage 2 of 6. 02/23/2018.
• Expert attribution by Cuds on Coins

External References