Indian Head Cent
Country of Origin: United States of America
Year of Issue: 1906
Denomination: One Cent ($0.01)
Composition: 95% Copper, 5% Tin and Zinc
Brief Description
A copper-alloy cent featuring Liberty in a Native American feathered headdress on the obverse and a wreath on the reverse.
Historical Significance
Designed by James B. Longacre, the Indian Head Cent was the primary small cent of the Civil War era and the late 19th century, remaining in production until 1909.
Estimated Value
$1-$3 in Good/Fine condition; $15-$40 in About Uncirculated; $50+ in Mint State.
Care Instructions
Do not clean or polish. Store in a PVC-free flip or archival-safe holder to prevent environmental damage and copper oxidation.
Mint Mark
None (Philadelphia Mint)
Mintage & Rarity
96,020,530; Common date for the series.
Weight & Diameter
3.11 grams, 19.05 mm
Edge
Plain
Apparent Grade
Good (G) to Very Good (VG) - Significant wear is visible, the details of the headdress are indistinct, and the coin has a dark brown patina.
Obverse (Front)
Lady Liberty wearing a Native American feathered war bonnet; 'UNITED STATES OF AMERICA' around the perimeter and the date 1906 at the bottom.
Reverse (Back)
'ONE CENT' within a wreath of oak leaves and acorns, with a small shield at the top of the wreath.
What Drives This Coin's Value
Condition (presence of 'LIBERTY' on the headband), surface originalty, and eye appeal. High-grade specimens with original red luster are most valuable.
Similar Coins
Flying Eagle Cents (earlier) and Lincoln Wheat Cents (later). Often confused with tokens from the same era.
Authenticity & Counterfeit Red Flags
Check weight and diameter; look for clear, centered lettering. Most 1906 cents are authentic due to their high mintage, but thin or mushy details can indicate a cast counterfeit.
Notable Varieties & Errors
No major die varieties are widely recognized for 1906, though minor doubled dies may exist.
Created At: 2026-06-29T14:56:17.120017