1864 Indian Head Cent - L on Ribbon

Coin Details

Auction Record

$4,080 MS67BN 05-29-2019 Stack's Bowers

Description

The 1864 Indian Head Cent - L on Ribbon was struck at the Philadelphia Mint as a cent in the Indian Head Cents 1859-1909 series. The U.S. Mint produced 39.2 million examples, making this ranked 2nd of 3 mint variants by mintage, with 43% of 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. Coined at the Philadelphia facility, the nation's original mint that has operated continuously since its 1792 founding. Estimated market value ranges from $73 to $721 depending on grade and condition. Struck in 95% copper, 5% tin and zinc, weighing 3.11 grams, 19 mm in diameter, with a plain edge. Cataloged as PCGS #2079.