1909 Indian Head Cent

Base

About This Coin

The 1909 Indian Head Cent is a United States cent from the Indian Head Cents 1859-1909 series — the final year of the series. In 1909, coins were struck at the Philadelphia and San Francisco Mints with a combined mintage of 14.7 million. 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. The final year of the Indian Head Cent before being replaced by the Lincoln Cent. The 1909-S is the key San Francisco date. Struck in 95% copper, 5% tin and zinc, weighing 3.11 grams, 19 mm in diameter, with a plain edge. Collectors have cataloged 35 known die varieties for this date across 5 categories, including cud, master die doubling obverse, retained cud and 2 other types. Across its variants, estimated values range from $12 to $1.6K depending on mint mark, grade, and strike type. A notable auction result reached $3.6K in MS64BN grade at Stack's Bowers. Designed by James Barton Longacre.

Value Estimates

$12 - $1,599

Values as of May 2026 across all of this coin's strike types, 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.