1874 Indian Head Cent
Strike Type
Coin Details
Value Estimates
Values as of May 2026 — estimates reflect typical grades (G-4 through MS-63). Coins in lower or exceptional grades may fall outside this range.
Auction Record
$1,234 MS65BN 10-15-2015 Legend Rare Coin Auctions
Description
The 1874 Indian Head Cent is a cent produced at the Philadelphia Mint as part of the Indian Head Cents 1859-1909 series. With a mintage of 14.2 million, this is a less common issue — the higher-mintage of the two mint variants, representing 100% 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. Minted during Reconstruction and the Gilded Age, as the nation healed from civil war and debated the role of silver and gold in the monetary system. Struck at the original U.S. Mint facility, in continuous operation since 1792. Estimated market value ranges from $30 to $344 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 #2118.
