1864 Indian Head Cent - Copper Nickel

Coin Details

Auction Record

$13,800 MS66 01-05-2006 Heritage Auctions

Description

The 1864 Indian Head Cent - Copper Nickel, struck at the Philadelphia Mint, is part of the Indian Head Cents 1859-1909 collection. With a mintage of 13.7 million, this is a less common issue — the lowest mintage among 3 mint variants, representing only 15% of total production. 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. Composition changed from copper-nickel to bronze due to Civil War metal shortages. The "L" initial for Longacre first appears on the ribbon, creating two major varieties. 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 4.7 grams, 19 mm in diameter, with a plain edge. Cataloged as PCGS #2070.