By the time the 1890 Indian Head Penny was being minted, the one cent coin was becoming increasingly popular. In the early 1880s, the country had been suffering through an economic crisis that lowered the demand for currency. By the end of the 1880s, the economy was recovering and mintage numbers increased significantly.
In addition, around this time, the US Post Office lowered the price of a stamp to two cents. This rendered the three cent nickel practically irrelevant and by 1890, the coin was eliminated. As a result, more people were using the 1890 Indian Head Penny and mintage numbers continued to climb.
1890 Indian Head Cent Design
While the country had been going through major changes, the Indian Head Penny had remained largely the same for decades. While there are some anomalies that occurred throughout the years that created rare versions, the classic design was still being used. The face of the coin depicts the profile of the Goddess Lady Liberty while the back of the coin contains an oak wreath, shield and the words “One Cent.” The coin has a smooth edge, but there is a circle made of tiny diamond shapes on the surface.
1890 Indian Head Penny Value
Perhaps the biggest difference is whether you find an 1890 Indian Head Penny in red, red-brown or brown. The red version is the hardest to find and therefore the most valuable. On average, a circulated coin in decent condition is worth $4. If you can find a mint condition version, you could get around $105 at auction. Although not a rare Indian Head Penny, the 1890 is a highly collectible coin.
Type of coin: One Cent
Year: 1890 Indian Head Penny
Mint Mark: Philadelphia
Total mintage: 57,180,114
Metal content: 95% Copper, 5% Tin and Zinc
Face value: One Cent
Weight: 3.11 grams
Edge: Plain
Designer: James Barton Longacre
Diameter: 19 millimeters