The 1881 1C Indian Head Penny, a regular strike coin from the Philadelphia Mint, continues the lineage of the Indian Head cent series with its distinctive design by James Barton Longacre. This year's issuance is known for its ample mintage, making it a common date that is readily available for coin enthusiasts.
Product Specifications:
- Designer: James Barton Longacre
- Mint: Philadelphia
- Mintage: 39,208,000
- Metal Composition: 95% Copper, 5% Tin and Zinc
- Diameter: 19.00 millimeters
- Weight: 3.11 grams
- Edge: Plain
- Year of Issue: 1881
Design Highlights:
The obverse of the 1881 Indian Head Penny features the classic image of Lady Liberty donning a Native American headdress, with the date "1881" below. The headband of the headdress bears the inscription "LIBERTY." The reverse includes a wreath encircling the "ONE CENT" denomination, surrounded by "UNITED STATES OF AMERICA."
Collectibility and Rarity:
With over 39 million struck, the 1881 Indian Head Penny is a prevalent date in the series, with many examples saved over time. The coin is easily obtainable in most grades, offering a good entry point for those new to collecting or looking to fill a specific slot in their Indian Head series collection. It becomes somewhat scarce in MS65 condition or higher, though there are still hundreds of such examples. The scarcity increases significantly in MS66 grade, with an estimated 75 to 100 examples in existence. In MS67 grade, this coin is very scarce, with about a dozen or fewer known specimens, making it a prized possession for advanced collectors seeking high-grade examples.
Numismatic Value and Significance:
The 1881 Indian Head Penny is a testament to the historical period it represents and is valued for its classic design and relative abundance. Its availability in lower grades and the challenge of finding it in premium conditions make it an attractive coin for a wide range of collectors.
