CU-1c-1905-01R Cud

Description

The first and only reverse cud documented for the 1905 Indian Head cent, CU-1c-1905-01R was cataloged by Cuds on Coins as a rim break on the wreath reverse designed by James B. Longacre. Indian Head cents of this period were struck exclusively at Philadelphia, and the 1905 issue had a mintage of 80.7 million pieces, placing it in the upper range of production for the series' final decade (1900-1909). Longacre's oak wreath and shield reverse features organic, curving elements that respond to die stress differently than geometric or architectural designs, with fractures tending to follow the natural flow of the wreath's branches and leaves. The CU-1c-1905-01R designation indicates this is a reverse-side break, and the "01R" suffix confirms its status as the sole documented reverse cud for the date. No cross-references to other error cataloging systems exist. Indian Head cent cuds are sought by both error collectors and Indian Head cent series specialists, creating dual demand that supports strong market interest when examples surface. The Indian Head design had been in continuous production since 1859, and by 1905 the series was approaching its final years before being replaced by Victor David Brenner's Lincoln cent in 1909. Die steel quality in the early 20th century was superior to mid-19th century materials but still subject to fatigue and fracture, particularly at the rim where the die's edge experiences maximum lateral stress during each strike cycle. Collectors interested in this cud should examine the rim position and extent of the break to assess its visual impact and determine how much of Longacre's wreath design has been obliterated by the die failure.

Attribution History

• Cross reference number: none. See – CU-1c-1905-01R.
• Expert attribution by Cuds on Coins

External References