Indian Head Cent

United States of America · 1859-1909 (undated due to wear)

A very heavily worn, dark brown copper coin. The outline of a profile in a headdress is visible on one side, and a circular wreath around the word CENT is partially visible on the other.

Country: United States of America
Year: 1859-1909 (undated due to wear)
Denomination: One Cent ($0.01)
Metal: 95% copper, 5% tin/zinc (Bronze)

This report is AI-generated and can be wrong. Always verify grade, authenticity, and value with a qualified dealer or certified grading service before buying, selling, or insuring.

Identified July 14, 2026More united states of america coins →

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Overview

A very heavily worn, dark brown copper coin. The outline of a profile in a headdress is visible on one side, and a circular wreath around the word CENT is partially visible on the other.

Historical significance

The Indian Head Cent was the primary small-denomination coin used in the U.S. through the Civil War and the Gilded Age. Designed by James B. Longacre, it actually depicts Liberty wearing a Native American headdress rather than a Native American person.

Obverse (front)

Liberty in a Native American feathered headdress facing left. The legend 'UNITED STATES OF AMERICA' and the date should be visible in higher grades, but are worn away here.

Reverse (back)

The words 'ONE CENT' (only 'CENT' is visible here) centered within a wreath of oak leaves with a small shield at the top center.

Estimated value

$1-$2 in this heavily worn condition; higher values ($10-$500+) apply only to better grades or key dates like 1877 or 1908-S/1909-S.

What drives this coin's value

Condition is the biggest factor; since the date is not visible, the coin is valued primarily as a filler or at a baseline 'cull' rate. Key dates (1877, 1909-S) significantly increase value if identifiable.

Grade assessment

About Good (AG-3) to Good (G-4) Details; heavily worn, likely environmental damage or 'slick' condition.

Mintage & rarity

Common for most years; over 100 million were minted in many later years. The condition makes this specific specimen very common.

Authenticity & counterfeit red flags

Check for correct weight (3.11g) and diameter. Counterfeits commonly target key dates like 1877; in this low grade, fakes are less common but often involve added mint marks.

Notable varieties & errors

1888/7 overdate, 1873 'Closed 3', and 1894 Doubled Die Obverse are popular varieties for this series.

Similar coins

Flying Eagle Cents (pre-1859) or Lincoln Wheat Cents (post-1909). Easily distinguished by the headdress profile.

Care & preservation

Do not attempt to clean this coin with chemicals or abrasives, as this will destroy any remaining numismatic value. Store in a PVC-free flip or archival-safe container to prevent further environmental damage.