The 1874 1C Indian Head Penny, a regular strike coin minted at the Philadelphia Mint, holds its place as a distinctive yet accessible piece within the beloved Indian Head series, crafted by the renowned engraver James Barton Longacre.
Product Specifications:
- Designer: James Barton Longacre
- Mint: Philadelphia
- Mintage: 14,187,500
- Metal Composition: 95% Copper, 5% Tin and Zinc
- Diameter: 19.00 millimeters
- Weight: 3.11 grams
- Edge: Plain
- Year of Issue: 1874
Design Highlights:
The coin features the classic Indian Head design on the obverse, with Lady Liberty donning a Native American headdress, and "LIBERTY" inscribed on the band. The year "1874" is displayed beneath the profile. The reverse showcases a wreath encircling the "ONE CENT" denomination, with "UNITED STATES OF AMERICA" circling the wreath.
Collectibility and Rarity:
While the 1874 Indian Head Penny is not considered a key date, it is scarcer than many other dates in the series, especially in higher grades. In circulated grades, this coin is quite accessible to collectors and carries a modest premium over common dates. It becomes significantly scarcer in uncirculated conditions, with an estimated 2,000 existing across all uncirculated grades. Its relative scarcity in mint condition makes it an attractive coin for collectors seeking to add depth to their collection.
Numismatic Value and Significance:
The 1874 1C Indian Head Penny is a desirable coin for numismatists due to its age, design, and the historical context of its minting. For those looking to acquire pieces from the later years of the Indian Head cent series, this coin offers a blend of availability in lower grades with the challenge of finding it in pristine condition, making it an engaging pursuit for both novice and experienced collectors.
