Diagnostic Controls & Presets Spiked Chin Die Variety
Diagnostic Forensic Readings
Forensic Attribution Diagnostic
Real-time metallurgical and die variety cross-examination verified against certified populations.
Technical Breakdown: Physics, Metallurgy & Die Diagnostics
Struck in late 1804 on planchets manufactured by Matthew Boulton's Soho Mint in England.
A screw or sliver of iron fell onto the die during press adjustment, gouging an incuse cavity into Liberty's chin.
Documented Benchmark Auction Records
Finest known certified example of the iconic Cohen-8 variety; iridescent violet-brown mint luster.
Crisp, needle-sharp chin protrusion with CAC green bean approval and uncleaned chocolate surfaces.
Standard Crosslet 4 logotype with full ribbon stems and cartwheel frost.
Frequently Asked Questions
What is the 1804 'Spiked Chin' Half Cent?
The 1804 'Spiked Chin' (cataloged as Cohen-8) is one of the most famous and beloved die error varieties in early American numismatics. A sharp, dagger-like barb or spike projects outward from Miss Liberty's chin, accompanied by a scratch running down her throat and a small dot on her neck.
What caused the chin spike?
Numismatists believe an errant piece of metal (such as a chipped screw, needle, or die adjustment tool) fell between the dies during press set-up. When the dies were brought together, the tool was pressed into the obverse die, leaving an incuse gouge right on Liberty's chin. Every coin struck from that die subsequently showed a raised spike on her chin.
What are the major varieties of the 1804 Half Cent?
The 1804 half cent has several prominent varieties based on the shape of the '4' and the reverse wreath: (1) Plain 4 with Stems; (2) Plain 4 Stemless; (3) Crosslet 4 with Stems; (4) Crosslet 4 Stemless; and (5) the famous Spiked Chin (Cohen-8).
What is the difference between Plain 4 and Crosslet 4?
On the 'Plain 4', the horizontal right crossbar of the numeral '4' ends cleanly without ornamentation. On the 'Crosslet 4', a small perpendicular vertical serif crosses the tip of the crossbar like a small Christian cross.
What does 'Stemless' mean on early half cents?
On standard dies, two ribbon stems extend downward from the knot of the laurel wreath. On 'stemless' dies, the die engraver omitted the stems, so the wreath terminates flush at the lower leaves.
How common is the 1804 Spiked Chin variety?
Cohen-8 is relatively available in circulated grades (Very Good to Very Fine), making it a favorite target for cherrypickers at coin shows. However, Mint State examples are very rare and intensely contested.
How much is an 1804 'Spiked Chin' Half Cent worth?
A circulated specimen in Good-4 condition is worth $90 to $150. In Very Fine condition, it sells for $350 to $650. In About Uncirculated condition, it commands $1,800 to $3,500, while top Mint State examples sell for $12,000 to over $16,000 at auction.