1886 Indian Head Cent (Type 1) Die Clash (Reverse — Front Portrait)

Description

Among the more visually dramatic die clash errors on the Indian Head cent, this 1886 Type 1 specimen shows the front portrait of Liberty transferred from the obverse die onto the reverse. When two dies collide without a planchet between them, the raised design of each die impresses its mirror image into the opposing face, and the resulting coins carry ghost-like incuse impressions of the opposite design. On this example, Liberty's portrait elements are clearly visible across the wreath and lettering area of the reverse. The Type 1 designation carries collecting significance: 1886 Indian Head cents divide into two reverse types based on the position of the last headdress feather. On Type 1, that feather points between the I and C of AMERICA; on Type 2, between the C and A. A clash transferring most of the front portrait stands out among the die clash population for this date. The Indian Head cent was designed by James B. Longacre and struck in bronze from 1864 through 1909.