The 1882 1C Indian Head Penny, minted at the Philadelphia facility, is part of the longstanding Indian Head series and bears the design crafted by James Barton Longacre. This year's production is notable for its substantial mintage and prevalence across various grades.
Product Specifications:
- Designer: James Barton Longacre
- Mint: Philadelphia
- Mintage: 38,578,000
- Metal Composition: 95% Copper, 5% Tin and Zinc
- Diameter: 19.00 millimeters
- Weight: 3.11 grams
- Edge: Plain
- Year of Issue: 1882
Design Highlights:
The coin features the Indian Head design on the obverse, with Lady Liberty wearing a Native American headdress, "LIBERTY" inscribed on the band, and the year "1882" below. The reverse showcases a laurel wreath encircling the "ONE CENT" denomination, with "UNITED STATES OF AMERICA" around the edge.
Collectibility and Rarity:
The 1882 Indian Head Cent is very common in grades up to and including MS65, making it a readily available option for collectors to acquire. In MS66, the coin becomes scarce, with only a few known to exist in this condition. PCGS has certified a couple of examples at the MS67 grade, representing the pinnacle of quality and scarcity for this issue.
Grading and Certification:
While Brown (BN) examples are abundant, they are less frequently submitted for certification, as this does not significantly add to their value. Red-Brown (RB) examples are plentiful, with most falling into the MS64 category. Full Red (RD) examples are rarer than Red-Brown but are still accessible to collectors, especially in the MS64RD and MS65RD grades.
Aesthetic Appeal and Rarity:
The 1882 Indian Head Penny is appreciated for its good striking quality and luster, often presenting a full red or orange-red color in original mint state examples. While Brown and Red-Brown specimens are common, the Full Red coins are more sought after and valued for their aesthetic appeal.
Numismatic Significance:
This coin offers a blend of historical significance and broad accessibility, making it an attractive choice for both new and experienced collectors aiming to build or enhance their Indian Head penny collections. The 1882 1C Indian Head Penny is a staple of late 19th-century American numismatics and a testament to the era's minting craftsmanship.
