SKH-1c-1953-04 Spike Head

Description

Proof-struck at the Philadelphia Mint, SKH-1c-1953-04 documents a Spike Head on the 1953 Proof Lincoln Wheat Cent — a scarce category because proof dies receive meticulous preparation including polishing and chrome plating that ordinarily catches surface defects before coins are struck. Cross-referenced as Cohen Index 53-BA105, this variety carries an unusual "BA" prefix in its Cohen designation, distinguishing it from the standard numeric-only or letter-suffix patterns on business strike entries. That a die gouge capable of producing a raised spike near Lincoln's portrait survived proof die preparation speaks to the inherent limitations of visual inspection. Proof cents from the early 1950s were produced in modest quantities for collector proof sets sold directly by the Mint, giving any die variety found on these deliberately manufactured specimens a scarcity premium over business strike counterparts. The Spike Head projection on proof surfaces is particularly dramatic against mirror-finish fields. Bronze composition, 95% copper. Cataloged and verified by Cuds on Coins.

Attribution History

• Discovered by Earl M
• Cross reference: Cohen Index 53-BA105. 01/13/2017.
• Expert attribution by Cuds on Coins

External References