SKH-1c-1958-01 Spiked Head

Description

Holding the distinction of first cataloged spiked head for the final year of Wheat Cent production, SKH-1c-1958-01 is cross-referenced as Cohen Index 58-59B. The 1958 Philadelphia cent marks the end of a nearly half-century run — Victor David Brenner's wheat-ears reverse, introduced alongside his Lincoln portrait in 1909, would be replaced by Frank Gasparro's Lincoln Memorial design in 1959. Die varieties from this terminal year carry particular historical weight, documenting the last working dies ever prepared for one of American numismatics' most enduring designs. A spiked head forms when die surface damage near Lincoln's bust creates a recessed defect that fills with metal during striking, producing a raised projection on the finished coin. The specific angle and position of the spike serve as the primary attribution diagnostic. Collecting terminal-year varieties has long appealed to specialists who value the finality these coins represent — the last of their kind from a series spanning two world wars. Bronze composition, 95% copper. Cataloged and verified by Cuds on Coins.

Attribution History

• Discovered by Earl Williams
• Cross reference number: Cohen Index 58-59B. 06/01/2016.
• Expert attribution by Cuds on Coins

External References