A simple 1964 Lincoln penny just made headlines after selling for an incredible $450,000 at auction in New York.
What makes this coin so special? A dramatic “Spiked Head” die break—a minting flaw so rare that only 3 examples are known to exist.
With prices rivaling the legendary 1913 Liberty Nickel, this error cent is now one of the most valuable modern U.S. coins. Could one be sitting in your coin jar? Let’s find out 
Why the 1964 “Spiked Head” Penny Is Worth Nearly Half a Million
Die Break Error – A sharp 1–2mm spike protrudes from Lincoln’s forehead
Only 3 Known Specimens – Ultra-rare and highly desirable
PCGS MS65+ RB Certified – Red-brown luster, outstanding eye appeal
Philadelphia Mint Origin – Minted during the historic 1960s production boom
How to Spot the “Spiked Head” Error
Obverse (Front):
- 1–2mm metal spike rising from Lincoln’s hairline
- Slight distortion of “LIBERTY” near the spike
- Correct date: 1964 (no mintmark)
Reverse (Back):
- Standard Lincoln Memorial design
- Sometimes minor die cracks radiating from the center (not required)
Quick 10-Second Authentication Test
Spike should feel part of the metal – not glued or attached
Seamless metal flow – spike blends naturally into the coin
Correct specs:
- Weight: 3.11g copper
- Non-magnetic (beware zinc/steel fakes)
- Smooth edge (no ridges or reeding)
2024 Value Breakdown
| Condition | Normal 1964 Cent | Spiked Head Error |
|---|---|---|
| Circulated | $0.05 | $150,000+ |
| MS63 | $0.50 | $250,000+ |
| MS65+ RB | $5.00 | $450,000+ |
How to Avoid Counterfeits
Epoxy Spikes – Look flaky or separate under magnification
Wrong Metal – Must be 95% copper (not zinc-plated)
Tooling Marks – Scratch lines near spike = fake attempt
What Caused This Error?
This rare flaw happened due to die fatigue at the Philadelphia Mint. A catastrophic crack in the die allowed molten copper to flow into the fracture, creating the iconic “spike” from Lincoln’s forehead.
The result? One of the most dramatic and valuable mint errors of the 20th century.
Discovery Timeline
1989 – First specimen found in a Pennsylvania bank roll
2012 – Second example surfaces in McDonald’s change
2025 – Third coin sells for $450K at New York auction
PCGS Population: Still only 3 graded examples (all Red-Brown).
What To Do If You Find One
Handle with cotton gloves (avoid fingerprints)
Take macro photos of the spike detail
Submit to PCGS or NGC with “Mint Error” request
Insure your coin for $500K+ before mailing
Fun Fact: In the mid-1960s copper shortage, millions of 1964 cents were almost melted down—making survival of this error even more incredible.
Collector Market Insight
Some elite buyers are already offering $75,000 finder’s fees for raw, ungraded examples. If you find one—don’t sell too fast!
Top Selling Venues:
- Heritage Auctions
- Stack’s Bowers Rarities Night
Private Elite Collectors
Final Word
That weird-looking 1964 Lincoln penny with a spike could buy you a house. With just three known examples and a record price of $450,000, this coin proves why error collectors are some of the most passionate in numismatics.
