Olevian Numismatic Rarities
1881 Indian Head Cent // PCGS Certified Proof 64 RB // Deluxe Collector's Pouch
Product Description
In the first half of the 18th century, one cent coins were large, clunky copper pieces nearly the size of a modern half dollar. By 1856, the cost of producing these copper coins rose so high that the U.S. mint was forced to significantly reduce the size of the one cent coin. On May 25th, 1857 the mint debuted a new small diameter cent, the Flying Eagle cent, which was the same size as our modern-day Lincoln cent. However, due to difficulties in production and issues with strike quality, this new cent was quickly abandoned and replaced by the Indian Head cent, which was minted through 1909.
Initially, the coin was produced in a copper-nickel alloy before changing to bronze composition. The obverse of the Indian Head cent features Lady Liberty wearing a Native American war bonnet— regarded by the public at the time as a decidedly unusual headdress for a female figure of otherwise neoclassical Greek form. The reverse originally featured an olive wreath, which was later changed to a wreath of oak and other leaves with a shield at the apex. Indian cents remained in circulation through the 1940s until increasing value and interest among coin collectors rendered them scarce by 1950. You will receive the unique coin shown in the photos housed in a deluxe collector’s pouch with a certificate of authenticity.
Product Details
- Measurements
5"L x 4"W x 1"H
- OriginUnited States
— Type: Indian Cent: (1859-1909)
— Designer: James Barton Longacre
— Weight: 4.7g
— Diameter: 19.0mm
— Composition: 88% Copper, 12% Nickel
— Obverse Design: Lady Liberty With Feathered Headdress, Facing Left
— Obverse Inscription: United States Of America / Date
— Reverse Design: Oak Wreath And Shield
— Reverse Inscription: One Cent
The product offered for sale in this listing has been certified by one or more professional certification services, so you can be confident in the authenticity and stated condition.
Shipping Information
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Shipping AvailabilityUnited States
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Shipping PolicyDiscounted Shipping
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Discounted Shipping$14.99 first item / $14.99 each additional
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Ship In3-4 weeks ⓘ
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Return PolicyFinal sale, not eligible for return or cancellation
Size Chart
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