1897 Proof Indian Head Cent

Coin Details

Auction Record

$3,100 PR67BN 08-17-2016 Legend Rare Coin Auctions

Description

The 1897 Proof Indian Head Cent is a proof cent struck at the Philadelphia Mint, part of the Indian Head Cents 1859-1909 series. With a mintage of 1,938, this is an extremely rare issue — the scarcer of two mint variants, with less than 1% of total 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. Struck during the Gilded Age of rapid industrialization and the great silver debates, when monetary policy shaped elections and economic destiny. As a proof issue, this coin was struck multiple times on specially prepared polished planchets using polished dies, producing mirror-like fields and frosted design elements prized by collectors. Struck at the original U.S. Mint facility, in continuous operation since 1792. Estimated market value is approximately $313. Struck in 95% copper, 5% tin and zinc, weighing 3.11 grams, 19 mm in diameter, with a plain edge. Cataloged as PCGS #2378.