1859 Indian Head Penny

While the release of the first Flying Eagle Cent coin popularized American currency, it became clear that the design has some flaws. James Ross Snowden thought that the relief was too high and the public didn’t seem to approve of the design. These concerns lead to the second in the small penny series: the 1859 Indian Head Penny. 

Design for the Rare Indian Head Cent

Famous designer, James Barton Longacre, used the front side to depict Lady Liberty wearing a Indian chief headdress. It is speculated that either Longacre’s own daughter or niece was used as the model for the female profile, but there is no hard evidence to support these theories. The reverse side of the coin features a laurel wreath. While the Indian Head Penny would continue to be struck for another 50 years, this is the only year that was printed with a laurel wreath.

The 1859 Indian Head Penny is also unique for its metal composition. In the early years of US currency, federal law mandated that the one cent coin be manufactured with a combination of 88% copper and 12% nickel. This gives the coin a unique color that isn’t found in modern coins. 

What is a 1859 Indian Head Penny Worth?

This coin is popular with collectors because of its place in American history. It was minted just prior to the Civil War and is only the second design to be released by the Philadelphia Mint. A 1859 Indian Head Penny in good condition will sell for under twenty dollars while the rare proof can be sold for several thousand dollars.  

  

Type of coin: One Cent

Year: 1859 Indian Head Penny

Mint Mark: Philadelphia

Total mintage: 36,400,000

Metal content: 88% Copper and 12% Nickel

Face value: One Cent

Weight: 4.70 grams

Edge: Plain

Designer: James Barton Longacre

Diameter: 19 millimeters