1859 Proof Indian Head Cent
Strike Type
Coin Details
Value Estimates
Value as of May 2026, from the one price recorded for this coin. Actual sales can differ. Compare recent sales of similar coins for a closer estimate.
Auction Record
- Price realized
- $29,900
- Sold
- Grade
- PR65
- Auction house
- Heritage Auctions
Description
The 1859 Proof Indian Head Cent is a proof cent struck at the Philadelphia Mint, part of the Indian Head Cents 1859-1909 series. The Philadelphia Mint struck 800 proof 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. As a proof issue, this coin was struck multiple times on specially prepared polished planchets using polished dies, producing mirror-like fields and frosted design elements prized by collectors. Struck at the Philadelphia Mint. Estimated market value is approximately $2.3K. Struck in 88% copper, 12% nickel, weighing 4.67 grams, 19 mm in diameter, with a plain edge. Cataloged as PCGS #2247.
External References
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