1891 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
- $2,070
- Sold
- Grade
- MS65
- Auction house
- Goldberg Auctioneers
Description
The 1891 Indian Head Cent is a cent minted at the Philadelphia Mint, within the Indian Head Cents 1859-1909 series. The Philadelphia Mint struck 47,070,000 cents dated 1891. 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. Philadelphia's mint — the nation's first — has produced coins without interruption since its founding in 1792. Estimated market value ranges from $4 to $100 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 #2178.
External References
Error Varieties(5)
1891 Indian Head Cent Doubled Die Obverse FS-101 Snow-1
1891 Indian Head Cent Pre-Cud (Reverse 3:00–5:00)
1891 Indian Head Cent Pre-Cud (Reverse 7:00–8:00)
1891 Indian Head Cent Repunched Date FS-301 Snow-3
1891 Indian Head Cent Retained Cud (Reverse 3:00–5:00)
Other Strike Types in This Series
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