1909 (S) Indian Head Cent
Strike Type
Coin Details
Value Estimates
Values as of May 2026 — estimates reflect typical grades (G-4 through MS-67). Coins in lower or exceptional grades may fall outside this range.
Auction Record
$3,400 NGC Genuine 01-27-2021 eBay
Description
The 1909 (S) Indian Head Cent is a cent produced at the San Francisco Mint as part of the Indian Head Cents 1859-1909 series. The U.S. Mint produced 309,000 examples. The obverse features Liberty wearing a feathered headdress, often misidentified as a Native American — actually represents Liberty adorned with a chief's war bonnet, while the reverse displays an oak wreath with a shield at the top, enclosing ONE CENT. Designed by James Barton Longacre. Struck in 95% copper, 5% tin and zinc, weighing 3.11 grams, 19 mm in diameter, with a plain edge. Cataloged as PCGS #2238. James Barton Longacre created the Indian Head Cent, reportedly using his daughter Sarah as a model. One of the most collected U.S. series. Key dates include the 1877, 1909-S, and the 1864-L (first year with "L" for Longacre on the ribbon). The semi-key 1908-S and 1909-S are also prized.
