1888 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
- $4,600
- Sold
- Grade
- GEM BU
- Auction house
- Stack's
Description
The 1888 Indian Head Cent, struck at the Philadelphia Mint, is part of the Indian Head Cents 1859-1909 collection. The Philadelphia Mint struck 37,489,832 cents dated 1888. 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. Struck during the Gilded Age of rapid industrialization and the great silver debates, when monetary policy shaped elections and economic destiny. The Philadelphia Mint, America's oldest coin-making facility, has struck coins continuously since 1792. Estimated market value ranges from $2.0K to $79K 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 #2166.
External References
Error Varieties(9)
1888 Indian Head Cent Die Clash (Reverse — Double Clash)
1888 Indian Head Cent Misplaced Date FS-303 Snow-27
1888 Indian Head Cent Pre-Cud Reverse (9:00 to 10:30)
1888 Indian Head Cent Repunched Date FS-302 Snow-2
1888 Indian Head Cent Repunched Date Snow-5
1888 Indian Head Cent Rim Cud (Obverse at 10:00)
1888 Indian Head Cent Strike Through (Obverse)
CU-1c-1888-01 Rim Cud
CU-1c-1888-02 Rim Cud
Other Strike Types in This Series
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