SKH-25c-1996P-11 Spiked Head

Description

The eleventh documented spiked head variety from the 1996 Philadelphia Quarter, SKH-25c-1996P-11 represents yet another die that succumbed to the metal fatigue characterizing this error type. Each die in the Mint's production line experiences slightly different stress patterns based on alignment, striking pressure, planchet feed consistency, and microscopic variations in die steel composition. Cataloged by Cuds on Coins, this variety serves as evidence that spiked head formation was not an isolated phenomenon but a recurring pattern across multiple dies in the 1996-P quarter production run. The Washington Quarter's design, sculpted by John Flanagan from a 1786 Jean-Antoine Houdon bust, places the highest relief at the hair and forehead — precisely where spiked heads most commonly develop due to maximum metal displacement during striking. Identifying individual spiked head dies requires careful comparison of spike angle, length, and origin point.

Attribution History

• Discovered by Ralph Rubino
• Expert attribution by Cuds on Coins

External References