1861 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
- $63,250
- Sold
- Grade
- MS68
- Auction house
- Heritage Auctions
Description
The 1861 Indian Head Cent represents a Philadelphia Mint issue from the Indian Head Cents 1859-1909 series. The Philadelphia Mint struck 10,100,000 cents dated 1861. 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 an oak wreath with a shield at the top, enclosing ONE CENT. Produced during the Civil War, when coin hoarding caused severe shortages and the Mint experimented with new compositions to keep coins in circulation. The Philadelphia Mint, America's oldest coin-making facility, has struck coins continuously since 1792. Estimated market value ranges from $30 to $527 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 #2061.
External References
Error Varieties(8)
1861 Indian Head Cent Die Clash (Obverse and Reverse, Ear and Wreath Transfer)
1861 Indian Head Cent Die Clash (Obverse and Reverse)
1861 Indian Head Cent Die Clash (Reverse)
1861 Indian Head Cent Repunched Date FS-301 Snow-1
CU-1c-1861-01 Cud
CU-1c-1861-02R Cud
PC-1c-1861-01R Pre-Cud
PC-1c-1861-02R Pre-Cud
Other Strike Types in This Series
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