1995 (P) Jefferson Nickel - SKH-5c-1995P-07 & 08 Spike Head

Description

Seventh documented spike head variety on the 1995 Philadelphia Jefferson Nickel, the SKH-5c-1995P-07 adds to a substantial roster of spiked head die cracks on this date — a testament to stresses imposed on nickel dies during high-volume production. A spike head occurs when a die crack radiates from Jefferson's portrait, typically where the die relief is deepest around the head. The crack fills with metal during each strike, producing a raised spike-like protrusion extending toward the field or rim. The number of spike head varieties on 1995-P Jefferson Nickels suggests production conditions that year — press speed, die hardness, or steel characteristics — were particularly conducive to this failure mode. Felix Schlag's Jefferson portrait, selected through a 1938 public design competition to replace the Buffalo Nickel, was in its fifty-eighth year of production. Struck on 75% copper and 25% nickel planchets at 21.2mm. Cataloged by Cuds on Coins as SKH-5c-1995P-07. Inspect Jefferson's head under magnification for the raised spike extending from the portrait.

External References