A 1964 Lincoln Cent featuring a dramatic “Spiked Head” die break stunned collectors after selling for a staggering $450,000 at a New York auction. With just three confirmed examples, this bizarre minting flaw is even rarer than the famed 1913 Liberty Nickel!
Could one of these rare treasures be sitting in your coin jar right now? 
Why the 1964 “Spiked Head” Penny Is Worth Nearly Half a Million
Here’s what makes this penny so legendary:
Die Break Error – A sharp 1–2mm spike of metal protrudes from Lincoln’s forehead.
Only 3 Known Specimens – An ultra-rare minting mistake.
Graded PCGS MS65+ RB – Red-brown luster and near-perfect surfaces.
Philadelphia Mint – Originated from a mid-1960s die failure.
How to Spot the 1964 “Spiked Head” Error
Think you’ve found one? Here’s how to tell the difference between treasure and pocket change:
Obverse (Front)
Spike: A sharp 1–2mm metal spike rising from Lincoln’s hairline.
Distorted “LIBERTY” – Letters look slightly stretched near the spike.
Date: Must read 1964 with no mintmark (Philadelphia Mint).
Reverse (Back)
Standard Lincoln Memorial design.
Minor die cracks may radiate from the center (optional feature).
10-Second Authentication Test
Feel the spike: It’s part of the coin, not glued or added.
Seamless metal flow: The spike blends naturally with the surface.
Specs check:
- Weight: 3.11g (solid copper)
- Non-magnetic (no steel or zinc!)
- Smooth edge — no ridges or reeding
2024 Value Breakdown
| Condition | Normal 1964 Penny | “Spiked Head” Error |
|---|---|---|
| Circulated | $0.05 | $150,000+ |
| MS63 | $0.50 | $250,000+ |
| MS65+ RB | $5.00 | $450,000+ |
Tip: The value skyrockets for coins with strong spikes and clean, original surfaces.
How to Avoid Counterfeits
Epoxy Spikes – Appear flaky or raised unnaturally under magnification.
Wrong Metal – Must be 95% copper, not zinc-plated.
Tooling Marks – Scratches or file lines near the spike = fake!
What Caused This Bizarre Error?
A die fatigue crack at the Philadelphia Mint caused molten copper to squeeze through during striking — forming a solid, spike-shaped metal protrusion.
The result? 
One of the most visually dramatic and valuable mint errors in modern U.S. coin history.
1964 “Spiked Head” Discovery Timeline
1989 – First coin found in a Pennsylvania bank roll.
2012 – Second specimen discovered in McDonald’s change.
2025 – Third example sells for $450,000 at auction in New York.
PCGS Population: Still only three graded, all with Red-Brown coloration.
What To Do If You Find One
Handle with cotton gloves – Oils can damage copper.
Photograph the spike – Use macro mode to capture detail.
Submit to PCGS or NGC – Request “Mint Error” designation.
Insure for $500,000+ before mailing to grading services.
Bonus Fact: This Penny Almost Didn’t Exist
During the 1960s copper shortage, millions of 1964 cents were nearly melted down — meaning this incredible error barely survived history.
That makes each surviving “Spiked Head” penny even more priceless today!
