The 1864 Copper-Nickel Indian Head Cent is a key piece from the Civil War era, boasting the second-lowest mintage in the copper-nickel series. Its historical significance and scarcity in higher grades make it a coveted coin among collectors.
Product Specifications:
- Designer: James Barton Longacre
- Mint: Philadelphia
- Mintage: 13,740,000
- Metal Composition: 88% Copper, 12% Nickel
- Diameter: 19.00 millimeters
- Weight: 4.70 grams
- Edge: Plain
- Year of Issue: 1864
Collectability Insights:
In circulated conditions, the 1864 Copper-Nickel Cent is rarer than the common dates of 1860, 1862, and 1863, hence it commands a premium. The only coin more challenging to find in circulation is the 1861 issue, which is reflected in its value.
Mint State Grades:
- MS65: The 1864 Copper-Nickel Indian Cent becomes the rarest in the series for grades MS65 and above.
- MS66: At this grade level, the coin is exceptionally hard to come by, with an estimated 10 to 15 examples known to exist.
- MS67: The zenith of its condition, with PCGS having graded only a single coin at this grade as of 2010, making it an extraordinary find for any collector.
Design Highlights:
The obverse of the coin features the classic Indian Head design by Longacre, with "LIBERTY" inscribed on the headdress and the year of issue below. The reverse showcases the "ONE CENT" denomination within a wreath, with "UNITED STATES OF AMERICA" surrounding it. This particular minting year is also notable for introducing the "L" on the ribbon of the headdress, representing Longacre's initial, though not all coins from 1864 feature this detail.
Historical and Collectible Significance:
For collectors, the 1864 Copper-Nickel Indian Head Cent represents not just monetary value but also historical significance. It reflects the numismatic artistry of its time and the nation's state during the Civil War. The scarcity of this coin in higher mint state grades adds to its allure, making it a prize for any serious numismatist.
