1894 Indian Head Cent

Strike Type

Coin Details

Year

1894

Denomination

Cent

Mint Mark

Strike Type

Regular Strike

Series

Indian Head Cents 1859-1909

Designer

James Barton Longacre

Mintage

16,749,500

Composition

95% Copper, 5% Tin and Zinc

Weight

3.11g

Diameter

19mm

Edge

Plain

Value Estimates

$92 - $2,497

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: $1,725
Sold: 18 February 2010
Grade: MS62
Auction house: David Lawrence RC

Description

Produced at the Philadelphia Mint, the 1894 Indian Head Cent is part of the Indian Head Cents 1859-1909 series. The Philadelphia Mint struck 16,749,500 cents dated 1894. 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 $92 to $2.5K 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 #2187.