1877 Indian Head Cent
$895.00
Only 1 left in stock
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Description
1877 Indian Head Cent NGC VF Details – OBV Scratched
- Mint: Philadelphia
- Mintage: 852,500
- Obverse Designer: James B. Longacre
- Reverse Designer: James B. Longacre
- Composition: Bronze
- Weight: 3.11g
- Diameter: 19mm
- Edge: Plain
This is a photo of the exact coin you will receive.
1877 Indian Head Cent – A Pivotal Piece in American Numismatics
Overview:
The 1877 Indian Head Cent stands as one of the most iconic and significant coins in the history of U.S. small cents, not only for its design but for its rarity among its series. Struck during a time of economic recovery post-Civil War, this coin encapsulates an era of American history where industry and innovation began to take new strides.
Design Elements:
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Obverse: The obverse features a left-facing depiction of Lady Liberty wearing a Native American headdress, designed by James B. Longacre. This portrayal is more symbolic than accurate, aiming to symbolize America’s westward expansion and the blending of cultures. “UNITED STATES OF AMERICA” encircles the top, with the year “1877” at the base.
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Reverse: On the reverse, a wreath composed of laurel leaves (bottom) and oak leaves with acorns (top) encloses the coin’s denomination, “ONE CENT.” A shield representing the Union sits at the top of the wreath, symbolizing strength and unity.
Material Composition:
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Metal: The 1877 Indian Head Cent is composed of 95% copper and 5% tin and zinc, a composition that gives the coin a distinct patina over time, ranging from brown to red, depending on its preservation state.
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Dimensions: It has a diameter of 19mm and weighs 3.11 grams, standard for the series, providing a tangible sense of history when held.
Historical Significance:
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Rarity: The 1877 cent is notably scarce, especially in high grades, due to its low mintage of just over 850,000. This was significantly lower than other years in the series, making it a key date for collectors. The economic conditions of 1877, including lingering effects of the Panic of 1873, contributed to reduced coin production.
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Collectible Appeal: Its rarity, combined with its status as a one-year type (in terms of low mintage), makes the 1877 Indian Head Cent highly sought after by collectors. It’s often considered a crown jewel in collections of U.S. small cents, with condition playing a crucial role in its valuation.
Condition and Grading:
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Grading: Due to its age and the softness of copper, coins in exceptional condition (graded by services like PCGS or NGC) are particularly valuable. Wear patterns, strike quality, and the presence of any minting errors or varieties can significantly affect its desirability and market price.
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Investment and Legacy: For investors, it represents an opportunity to own a piece of American history with potential for appreciation due to its scarcity. For collectors, it’s a challenge to find and a treasure to possess, often requiring both patience and a keen eye for detail.
Conclusion:
The 1877 Indian Head Cent is more than just a coin; it’s a relic of post-Civil War America, an emblem of economic struggle, recovery, and the enduring spirit of innovation in U.S. coinage. Its design echoes the romanticism of the American frontier while its scarcity underscores its collectible significance. Whether for its historical value, its role in numismatics, or its investment potential, the 1877 cent holds a revered place in American coinage.
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