1859 Indian Head Cent
Strike Type
Coin Details
Value Estimates
Values as of May 2026, from published price guides and, in some cases, recorded auction sales. For most coins the range runs from a well-worn example (around G-4) to an uncirculated one, but individual coins can sell for more or less depending on grade, eye appeal and demand. Compare recent sales of similar coins for a closer estimate.
Auction Record
- Price realized
- $34,500
- Sold
- Grade
- MS66+
- Auction house
- Heritage Auctions
Description
The 1859 Indian Head Cent was struck at the Philadelphia Mint as a cent in the Indian Head Cents 1859-1909 series. The Philadelphia Mint struck 36,400,000 cents dated 1859. The obverse features Liberty wearing a feathered headdress, often misidentified as a Native American — actually represents Liberty adorned with a chief's war bonnet and the reverse displays a laurel wreath enclosing ONE CENT, without the shield. The only year with the laurel wreath reverse — all subsequent years feature the oak wreath with shield design. The Philadelphia Mint, America's oldest coin-making facility, has struck coins continuously since 1792. Estimated market value ranges from $19 to $997 depending on grade and condition. Struck in 88% copper, 12% nickel, weighing 4.67 grams, 19 mm in diameter, with a plain edge. Cataloged as PCGS #2052.
External References
Error Varieties(8)
1859 Indian Head Cent Pre-Cud Reverse (3 to 6 o'clock)
1859 Indian Head Cent Pre-Cud Reverse (8 to 10 o'clock)
1859 Indian Head Cent Repunched Date FS-301 Snow-1
1859 Indian Head Cent Repunched Date FS-303 Snow-3
1859 Indian Head Cent Repunched Date, Pre-Cud FS-302 Snow-2
CU-1c-1859-01R Cud
CU-1c-1859-02 Cud
CU-1c-1859-03 Cud
Other Strike Types in This Series
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