1995 (P) Washington Quarter - SKH-25c-1995P-03 Spiked Head

Description

Third spiked head for the 1995 Philadelphia Mint Washington Quarter, cataloged on May 3, 2021, by Cuds on Coins. This variety and the closely dated -04 entry (cataloged just two weeks later on May 17, 2021) suggest a burst of discovery activity in mid-2021 for 1995-P spiked heads, possibly driven by a researcher systematically examining a batch of coins from this date. Three spiked heads establishes a solid foundation for the 1995-P spiked head catalog, confirming that multiple obverse dies cracked into the bust during the year's production. On Washington Quarters the spiked head is a crack in the obverse die running from the rim into the bust, which strikes up as a raised projection from the portrait. The Flanagan Washington portrait, with its detailed hair waves and strong profile contour, can be met by such a crack at various positions around the head. No cross-references exist for this variety in other attribution systems. The mid-1990s represent a mature period for the Washington Quarter series when production processes were highly refined and annual output was consistent, generating a predictable supply of die pairs. Collectors examining 1995-P quarters should pay particular attention to the area around Washington's forehead, crown, and the back of the head, looking for a raised line that runs from the rim into the portrait.

Cross References

• Cross reference: none. 05/03/2021.

External References