1996 (P) Jefferson Nickel - SKH-5c-1996P-01 Spiked Head

Description

Documenting the first cataloged spiked head on the 1996 Philadelphia Mint Jefferson Nickel, SKH-5c-1996P-01 represents an uncommon variety type for this denomination — spiked heads appear far less frequently on nickels than on cents, making each documented example noteworthy. Felix Schlag's portrait of Jefferson, gracing the nickel since 1938, presents a different die surface topography than Lincoln's profile on the cent, and the locations where gouges produce visible spikes differ accordingly. The nickel alloy's greater hardness compared to copper-plated zinc means die surface damage manifests differently, and resulting projections may appear more sharply defined against the harder substrate. As the first entry in the spiked head catalog for 1996-P Jefferson Nickels, this variety establishes the baseline for subsequent discoveries on the same date and mint. Schlag's original Monticello reverse remained in use in 1996, years before the Westward Journey designs would temporarily replace it. Philadelphia Mint, 75% copper and 25% nickel. Cataloged and verified by Cuds on Coins.

Cross References

• Cross reference: none. 03/21/2016

External References