1 Cent

Indian Head Penny (or Indian Head Cent)

United States · 1859-1909 (The image shows a set, so years vary per coin)

The Indian Head Penny features a bust of Lady Liberty wearing a Native American headdress on the obverse (front). The reverse (back) depicts a shield with a wreath (1859) or an oak wreath with a shield (1860-1909). The image shows a set of these pennies in a display case.

Country: United States
Year: 1859-1909 (The image shows a set, so years vary per coin)
Denomination: 1 Cent

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 October 29, 2025More united states coins →

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Overview

Historical significance

The Indian Head Penny was a widely circulated coin during a significant period of American history, including the Civil War and westward expansion. It replaced the Flying Eagle Cent and was itself replaced by the Lincoln Cent, marking a transition in U.S. coinage design. Its imagery reflects changing artistic and cultural representations of America.

Estimated value

The value of Indian Head Pennies varies greatly depending on their specific year, mint mark, and condition. Common dates in circulated condition might be worth "$1 - $5" each, while scarcer dates or coins in uncirculated condition can be worth hundreds or even thousands of dollars. As a set, their value would be the sum of individual coin values and potentially a small premium if the set is well-preserved with desirable dates. Without seeing individual dates and conditions, a precise value for this set is impossible, but a rough estimate for a common circulated set might range from "$50 - $200+".

Care & preservation

Handle coins by the edges to avoid touching their surfaces. Store them in inert, archival-safe holders or albums, such as the display case shown, which appears to be appropriate. Avoid cleaning these coins, as cleaning can significantly decrease their numismatic value. Keep them in a stable, temperate environment away from direct sunlight and humidity.

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Overview

Historical significance

Estimated value

Care & preservation

Other united states coins

Learn about Indian Head Penny (Or Indian Head Cent) in the encyclopedia