Indian Head Penny / Cent (1859-1909) The Indian Head Penny also sometimes referred to as the Indian Head Cent by collectors is a copper coin that preceded the Wheat Penny and Lincoln Penny. Cents Indian Cents (1859-1909) Difficulty in striking up the design fully was the probable reason for replacing the attractive Eagle Cent in 1859. Indian Head Penny / Cent (1859-1909) The Indian Head Penny also sometimes referred to as the Indian Head Cent by collectors is a copper coin that preceded the Wheat Penny and Lincoln Penny. Years minted 1859-1909 The front (obverse) of the coin contains the head of Lady Liberty wearing a chieftains headdress sometimes referred to as a war bonnet.
This was the first year that Indian Head pennies were minted. Before 1859, every cent was large in size. 1859 was the first year that small cents were introduced. The 1859 Indian Head pennies have value as numismatic coins. Keep reading to learn more about these one cent coins.
Specifications
Type: Indian Head Penny
Year: 1859
Face Value: $0.01
Composition: 88% copper, 12% nickel
Total Weight: 4.67 grams
There is no mint mark on this coin. Each coin was minted in Philadelphia.
- 1859 Indian Head Cent First Year Lustrous Uncirculated w/ All 4 Diamonds Rare! Pre-Civil War Era Copper Nickel Cent.
- The Indian Head cent, also known as an Indian Head penny, was a one cent coin produced by the United States Bureau of the Mint from 1859 to 1909. It was designed by James Barton Longacre, the Chief Engraver at the Philadelphia Mint. For collectors, the Indian Head Cent.
| Series | Location | Quantity Minted |
|---|---|---|
| 1859 | Philadelphia | 36,400,000 |
| 1859 Proof | Philadelphia | 800 |
Value
The 1859 Indian Head penny is worth around $15 in good condition. In very fine condition the value is around $55. In extremely fine condition the value is around $110. In uncirculated condition the price is around $285 for coins with an MS 60 grade. Uncirculated coins with a grade of MS 63 can sell for around $700.
The 1859 Indian Head proof penny is worth around $1,650 in PR 63 condition.
Rare Oak Wreath Coins
In 1860 the design changed slightly on both the obverse and reverse sides of the coin. The new design, known as type 2, has an oak wreath and a shield on the reverse side of the coin. A small number of 1859 pennies have this design. There were 1,000 of these coins minted but they were never released into circulation. Currently there are estimated to be around 200 known to exist.
The 1859 Indian Head penny with the oak wreath and shield reverse is worth around $1,100 in uncirculated conditon with a grade of MS 63.
Grading System
Good- The word 'LIBERTY' inscribed on Liberty's headband is not visible.
Very fine- The word 'LIBERTY' inscribed on Liberty's headband is visible but there is slight wear.
Extremely fine- The word 'LIBERTY' inscribed on Liberty's headband is sharp. The other details on the coin are also sharp. There is slight wear on the end of the ribbon.
MS 60 uncirculated- There are no signs of wear. The coin has luster, but there may be a few stains, abrasions, or surface marks.
MS 63 choice uncirculated- In the major focal areas there are some blemishes or contact marks. The coin's luster might not be as prominent.
PR 63 proof- This coin has reflective surfaces and only a few blemishes away from the major focal points. There are no major flaws.
Sources: Spin master coins.
The Red Book
See also:
1860 Indian Head Penny
1861 Indian Head Penny
1862 Indian Head Penny
The Indian Head Cent was struck in two metal compositions. From 1859 to mid 1864, the cent was struck in a metal composition consisting of 88% copper and 12% nickel, weighing 4.67 grams, or 72 grains. This metal proved to be too hard to strike, and in 1864 the composition was changed to a bronze alloy. This consisted of 95% copper and 5% zinc and tin. The bronze cents weigh 3.11 grams, or 48 grains.
Both compositions have a diameter of 19 millimeters, and all have a plain edge. The final two years were also produced at the San Francisco Mint, and the “S” mintmark is found on the reverse, under the wreath.
1859 Indian Head Penny History Chart
Copper Indian Head Cent
1859 Indian Head Penny Worth
Dates: 1859-1864
Mint Mark: none
Composition: 88% copper, 12% nickel
Weight: 4.67 grams
Diameter: 19 mm
Edge: plain
Designer: James B. Longacre
Bronze Indian Head Cent
1859 Indian Head Penny Value
Dates: 1864-1909
Mint Mark: none (Philadelphia), S (San Francisco)
Composition: 95% copper, 5% tin and zinc
Weight: 3.11 grams
Diameter: 19 mm
Edge: plain
Designer: James B. Longacre