SKH-1c-1968S-01 Cud

Description

Listed under a title referencing "Cud" due to a data import artifact, this variety is correctly classified as a spiked head error on the 1968-S proof Lincoln Memorial cent. Spiked head varieties occur when a die crack or die chip develops near Lincoln's head on the obverse, producing a raised spike, horn, or protrusion extending from the portrait. Unlike cuds, which involve complete rim fractures and produce featureless masses of metal, spiked heads are localized die deterioration events that add a distinctive pointed projection to Lincoln's profile. The Cohen Index initially did not list this variety as of its documentation date of July 23, 2017, but it subsequently received the designation 68S-70 on May 5, 2020, confirming its recognition as a legitimate cataloged variety within the specialized spiked head reference system. The delay between initial documentation and Cohen Index acceptance reflects the rigorous verification process required for new variety listings. As a proof issue, this spiked head appears on coins struck under controlled conditions with polished dies and planchets, where the mirror fields provide high contrast that makes the spike particularly visible and dramatic in appearance. Attributed by Cuds on Coins. Struck on a 3.11-gram, 19mm proof planchet of 95% copper and 5% zinc at the San Francisco Mint.

Attribution History

• Discovered by Juan Aguerre
• Cross reference: Cohen Index Not Listed. 07/23/2017. Cross reference: Cohen Index 68S-70. 05/05/2020.
• Expert attribution by Cuds on Coins

External References