SKH-10c-1954-02 Spiked Head

Description

Second in the spiked head catalog for the 1954 Roosevelt Dime, SKH-10c-1954-02 was documented by Cuds on Coins as another instance of this popular die deterioration variety from Philadelphia. Spiked heads form when die cracks or gouges near Roosevelt's portrait allow planchet metal to fill the defect under striking pressure, producing a spike-like projection from the head. Each spiked head is unique in spike location, angle, and length, determined by the position of the specific die defect on the working die. The visual impact of a spike emerging from Roosevelt's head makes these varieties instantly recognizable, especially among collectors who prize dramatic errors visible without equipment. The 1954 dime was produced in 90% silver, the composition serving the denomination throughout its silver era from 1946 to 1964. Two spiked heads for the date indicates multiple working dies developed defects in the portrait region, consistent with Sinnock's high-relief design where prominent features create stress points susceptible to cracking. Collectors should compare both 1954 spiked head entries to identify which spike position matches their specimen.

Attribution History

• Discovered by Juan Aguerre
• Cross reference: none. 11/27/2016.
• Expert attribution by Cuds on Coins

External References