The 1868 1C Indian Head Penny, a regular strike coin from the Philadelphia Mint, is a significant piece from the post-Civil War era. As part of the iconic Indian Head series, this coin's design by James Barton Longacre is celebrated for its classic American imagery and artistry.
Product Specifications:
- Designer: James Barton Longacre
- Mint: Philadelphia
- Mintage: 10,266,500
- Metal Composition: 95% Copper, 5% Tin and Zinc
- Diameter: 19.00 millimeters
- Weight: 3.11 grams
- Edge: Plain
- Year of Issue: 1868
Design Highlights:
The obverse of the 1868 Indian Head Penny features Lady Liberty adorned with a Native American headdress, a design that was progressive for its time and embraced as a symbol of America's westward expansion. "LIBERTY" is inscribed on the headdress band, and the coin's issue year, "1868," is displayed below the bust. The reverse design includes a wreath encircling the "ONE CENT" denomination with "UNITED STATES OF AMERICA" surrounding the wreath.
Collectibility and Rarity:
The 1868 Indian Head Penny is scarce across all grades, presenting a challenge for collectors to find even in lower conditions. The coin is particularly rare in the MS65 Red (RD) or better condition, where the original copper luster is still vibrant. Its rarity is comparable to the years 1866 and 1867 and is certainly rarer than the more commonly found 1864 and 1865 issues.
Numismatic Value and Significance:
The 1868 1C Indian Head Penny holds substantial appeal for collectors due to its rarity and the historical period it represents. Collecting coins from this series allows numismatists to own a piece of the late 19th-century American narrative, with each coin telling a story of its own era. The scarcity in higher grades adds to its desirability, making a well-preserved 1868 penny a prized addition to any collection.
